A Farm Bill set to expire in September, Congress looking to cut $1 billion in fresh fruit and vegetable investments, Congress on the verge of considering several agriculture labor reform bills, FDA unveiling its plan to reform the federal government's food program framework. These are a few pivotal issues attendees will confront at IFPA's 2023 Washington Conference, September 12-15 in Washington, DC.
"The industry is witnessing some of the most unprecedented obstacles in decades, directly impacting the businesses and employees we represent," said Robert Guenther, IFPA's chief public policy officer. "Never has there been a more critical time for us to come together to make our voices heard."
Attendees will advocate for the following pivotal issues:
Build a better Farm Bill: The Farm Bill is the single largest investment in federal resources directly tied to the fresh produce industry, with over $800 million per year invested by the Federal government, impacting the entire supply chain of fresh produce. The Farm Bill also sets the agriculture and food policy for the United States over the next five years. Set to expire in September, conference attendees will be part of the final push to protect the current investment, look for new opportunities and work with industry partners to develop strong support for our efforts. Attendees will hear from Senator Debbie Stabenow, chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, and other leaders on the issue.- Overcome labor challenges: The current labor debate in Congress is focused on enhancing border security, and agriculture labor reform is critical to that solution. IFPA believes that by reforming H-2A and H-2B and transitioning the current workforce into legal status, it can be part of the solution to address current challenges at our nation's borders.
- Drive food safety modernization at the FDA: The FDA is considering structural, cultural, and leadership changes, some of which may require Congressional approval or action. 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.
- 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 for children and women, leaving the 5 million women and children who rely on this program with $11 and $13 a month to purchase fresh produce. Fortunately, the Senate has maintained the current benefit of protecting the most vulnerable citizens. The battle lines have been drawn in Congress. IFPA is committed to preserving this critical benefit.
IFPA urges the industry to register for the Washington Conference and join industry leaders, policy experts, legislative staff, and more as it advocates for business priorities.
For more information, contact Angela Tiwari, director of grassroots & political affairs, at (202) 404-3416.
For more information:
Ashley Sempowski
International Fresh Produce Association
[email protected]
https://www.freshproduce.com/
