FRESNO, CA - This week brought a big win for specialty crop farmers. Congressmen David Valadao and Jim Costa have introduced the Specialty Crop Mechanization Assistance Act of 2023—a bill that is wholeheartedly supported by the California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA).

“CFFA is proud to have taken the lead in this collaborative effort to help equip farmers with the tools and technologies they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” CFFA President Ian LeMay stated. “I would like to thank Congressman Valadao and Congressman Costa for their partnership to support the needs of American agriculture. This bill will not only support farmers, but also their employees, to ensure that America continues to [be] a global leader in agricultural production.”

According to a press release, this legislation will help ensure America’s farmers and producers remain at the forefront of agricultural innovation and efficiency. CFFA, in collaboration with members of the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance, helped craft language included in the bill. This will expedite the adoption of mechanization for growers in the new Farm Bill, which is up for reauthorization in September.

The new bill demonstrates the value of what can be accomplished when the industry works together to ensure a more sustainable and efficient agricultural sector. CFFA is one of 200 organizations in the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance, representing growers of fruits, vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, nursery plants, and other products. The alliance was established to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crop agriculture and improve the health of Americans by broadening the scope of the United States agricultural public policy.

We join CFFA and other organizations in applauding this monumental legislation.

California Fresh Fruit Association