By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched a new civil rights portal to make filing discrimination complaints easier for its customers.
The USDA Civil Rights Management System (CRMS) is designed to streamline the process and provide transparency in handling complaints. This initiative is managed by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (OASCR).
Dr. Penny Brown Reynolds, USDA Deputy Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, explained, “The online portal is part of our efforts to better serve USDA customers and ensure Department-wide efficient, fair, consistent, and equitable application of civil rights.”
The portal allows individuals to file and track complaints related to discrimination they believe they experienced in USDA services, programs, or funded initiatives. Accessible in both English and Spanish, the system complements existing methods like email and mail submissions.
Key features include secure login through login.gov and real-time complaint status updates. USDA aims to enhance transparency and accountability under this system, supporting its ongoing commitment to equity.
Since 2019, OASCR has processed over 800 complaints manually, achieving a 43% reduction in average processing times. The new system is expected to improve efficiency further.
USDA encourages users to explore the portal at www.usda.gov/oascr/program-complaints or contact support services for assistance.
This initiative aligns with USDA’s broader efforts under the Administration to create a fair and resilient food system, strengthen rural economies, and promote equity in agriculture.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National