Produce Industry Supports Proposed $5 Billion Produce Market Stabilization Fund

US Capitol building flanked by the Library of Congress and the Supreme CourtUS Capitol building flanked by the Library of Congress and the Supreme Court

April 7, 2020

Several produce organizations have signed onto a letter urging the USDA to develop a $5 billion Produce Market Stabilization Fund to help U.S. produce growers and shippers, and licensed PACA Produce Dealers affected by the sudden collapse of their business due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The seven-page letter details the specifics of the assistance sought from March 1 to June 30. Here are the highlights:
  • Help U.S. growers with documented economic losses during this period.
  • Create a stabilization program for PACA Licensed Produce Dealers who service restaurants, schools and the hospitality industry. They seek economic assistance to help pay their contracts and their growers.
  • The money would provide emergency economic assistance to the produce supply chain during this time.
The letter also urged the USDA to use already funded stimulus plans ($500 million for WIC and $450 million for child nutrition programs) to prioritize nutrient-dense fresh fruits and vegetables in feeding programs. Finally, the letter urges USDA to create an ongoing assessment of the COVID-19 economic impact to the produce industry. To read the letter in full, go here.
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