This week the U.S. House of Representatives passed its FY08 Agriculture Appropriations Bill by a 237-18 vote - although there are 435 representatives in the House, many Republican House members did not vote. The Bill includes expanding the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program to all 50 states and Indian reservations, $10 million to support specialty crop block grants to the states, and $28 million for FDA food safety activities. "These programs and resources are critical elements to maintaining and enhancing the competitiveness of the fresh produce industry," said Robert Guenther, vice president of public policy. "We will now turn our focus on the Senate, and urge them to do the same." Support for congressional appropriated funding will be a top priority for attendees at our 2007 Washington Public Policy Conference. For more information, please contact Robert Guenther, 202-303-3400 ext. 409.
United Fresh Produce Association
1901 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20006
Tel: 202 303 3400
Fax: 202 303 3433 united@unitedfresh.org
