United Fresh members strongly support all efforts to expand federal government investment in the U.S. produce industry in order to increase the competitiveness of the domestic industry. We believe that specialty crop agriculture - predominately fruits and vegetables - should receive a much stronger funding commitment within U.S. agricultural policy, with investments focused on research, infrastructure, nutrition, new technology, and other areas to help producers compete more effectively.
Background
Over the past several years, United Fresh has been successful in increasing funding for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program on two separate legislative avenues: 1) securing appropriated funds from federal appropriators annually under the authorization of the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act, and 2) securing mandatory funds through the 2008 Farm Bill.
Farm Bill Success
One of the most significant victories for the U.S. fruit and vegetable industry in the 2008 Farm Bill was the conversion of this important program from being dependent on annual appropriations to securing mandatory funds for the life of the 2008 Farm Bill. That victory resulted in an increase from $7 million in appropriated funds to $49 million for FY2009. This amount will increase to $55 million in the next fiscal year and remain at that level through the life of the bill.
Implementation
Despite the significant victory for this program in the 2008 Farm Bill, work continues in order to ensure that the program’s potential is fully realized. Since the passage of the 2008 Farm Bill, United Fresh has worked with the Administration to implement this program in the most efficient manner possible to benefit America's produce industry. United Fresh has commented on the Administration's proposed rule for the program, worked with industry participants and consulted with state departments of agriculture to ensure that the program builds on its success for many years to come.
Action
United Fresh urges Members of Congress to support the full mandatory funding for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program included in the 2008 Farm Bill and to resist any efforts to reduce that level of funding through either the appropriations process or budget reconciliation.
Essential Policy Resources
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