WASHINGTON, DC - Come September 12–15, attendees of the International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) Washington Conference will confront a number of public policy issues. With a Farm Bill set to expire in September, Congress looking to cut $1 billion in fresh fruit and vegetable investments, and more, there will be much to discuss.

“The public policy agenda at this year’s Washington Conference addresses a wide array of challenges and opportunities from all sectors of the fresh produce and floral industry,” said Robert Guenther, IFPA’s Chief Public Policy Officer. “The industry is witnessing some of the most unprecedented obstacles in decades, directly impacting the businesses and employees we represent. Never has there been a more critical time for us to come together in Washington, D.C., to make our voices heard.”

According to a press release, the public policy issues to be discussed include:

• Build a better Farm Bill: Conference attendees will be part of the final push to protect current investment, look for new opportunities, and work with industry partners to develop strong support
• Overcome labor challenges: IFPA believes that by reforming H-2A and H-2B and transitioning the current workforce into legal status, we can be part of the solution to address current challenges at our nation’s borders
• Drive food safety modernization at the FDA: The FDA’s proposed reorganization of its food program could impact inspection, regulatory oversight, and recalls. The FDA will be present to discuss these important issues as attendees advocate for rebuilding the FDA into a more effective, efficient, and transparent organization that prioritizes food safety
• Preserve the produce benefit in WIC: The U.S. House of Representatives slashed the fruit and vegetable benefit for the Women, Infant, and Children Program by 56 percent, leaving the 5 million women and children who rely on this program with $11 and $13 a month to purchase fresh produce. IFPA is committed to preserving this critical benefit and protecting a $1 billion dollar investment in fruit and vegetable sales at retail

IFPA encourages industry members to register for the Washington Conference today. For more about the issues that will be discussed at the conference, click click here.

We look forward to seeing how the needle is moved by this dedicated group of industry leaders.

International Fresh Produce Association