7 U.S.C. § 6516 — Peer review of certifying agents

(a) Peer review In determining whether to approve an application for accreditation submitted under section 6514 of this title , the Secretary must consider a report concerning such applicant that must be prepared by a peer review panel established under subsection (b). (b) Peer review panel To assist the Secretary in evaluating applications under section 6514 of this title , the Secretary may establish a panel of at least three persons who have expertise in organic farming and handling methods, to evaluate the State governing official or private person that is seeking accreditation as a certifying agent under such section. at least two members of such panel must be persons who are not employees of the Department of Agriculture or of the applicable State government.