WASHINGTON, DC - Our industry is getting behind two key pieces of legislation in regard to nutrition and organics. The Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance (SCFBA) has endorsed the bills that cover key policy priorities outlined in the group’s 2023 Farm Bill recommendations.

“The U.S. specialty crop industry is crucial to our national economy and the health of our citizens, which is why we are so passionate in our endorsement of policies that strengthen the long-term viability of farmers while driving enormous benefit to the American people,” the SCFBA Co-Chairs said in a joint statement. “We appreciate the leadership demonstrated by our U.S. Senate and House champions in introducing smart proposals aimed at addressing nutrition insecurity and bringing stability to the organic sector.”

The SCFBA is led by Co-Chairs Mike Joyner, President of the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association; Dave Puglia, President and Chief Executive Officer of Western Growers; Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council; and Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association.

According to a press release, SCFBA’s 2023 Farm Bill recommendations include:

• Fresh Produce Procurement Reform Act - introduced by Senator Sherrod Brown (OH) and Reps. David Valadao (CA-22) and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03)l. Would direct USDA to implement a fresh produce purchasing program utilizing local and regional supply chains to distribute perishable fruits and vegetables to nutrition-insecure populations
• Continuous Improvement and Accountability in Organic Standards Act - introduced by Reps. Dan Newhouse (WA-4), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), David Valadao (CA-22), and Chellie Pingree (ME-1). Would amend the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 to provide a streamlined and predictable process, informed by direct stakeholder input and based on the best available data, to review and revise organic standards implemented by the USDA when necessary

Specialty crop production, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, nursery, and greenhouse commodities, contributes significantly to the U.S. economy, accounting for $64.7 billion in farm gate value and 30 percent of farm cash receipts for crops.

We look forward to seeing how this new legislation will shape the future of agriculture.

Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance