U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer announced that the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will be ready to be put into effect on July 1. Ambassador Lighthizer sent a notice to Congress on …
California Sees Even More Water Litigation
California has experienced an increase in water litigation over the past several weeks, all related to how water is managed in the Delta. Each of the lawsuits stems from the …
Disaster Loan Program Needs ‘Several Changes’
A coalition of agricultural groups and businesses are encouraging Congress to make some adjustments to the disaster loan program being made available to address the impact of COVID-19. In a …
‘More Meaningful Consultation’ Needed for New Regulations
Multiple groups representing a broad array of industries have taken issue with the continued rollout of new regulations, despite much of the state being shut down in relation to COVID-19. …
Pushing for the Removal of Payment Caps Under CFAP
Lawmakers and industry groups are encouraging the elimination of the payment caps under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP). The $19 billion program includes $16 billion in direct payments for …
Market Disruptions: ‘We’re Not Out of It by Any Stretch’
The market disruptions that have occurred in response to the COVID-19 pandemic could persist even after the shelter in place orders are rescinded. As officials weigh the options for systematically …
USDA Taking Proposals for Buy Fresh Program
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is working to implement the Buy Fresh program that has been developed as part of the coronavirus stimulus package in which Congress allocated $19 …
Newsom Considers Passing Pandemic Cost onto Employers Through Workers’ Compensation
Governor Gavin Newsom is considering an executive order that could significantly increase the cost of workers’ compensation insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The order would substantially expand the criteria of …
Coronavirus Assistance Payments Expected by ‘End of May’
Farmers and ranchers who are struggling with current market conditions can expect coronavirus assistance payments to come next month as part of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) that was …
DPR Lists Acceptable PPE Alternatives for Handling Pesticides
In response to the increased demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) created by COVID-19, the Department of Pesticide Regulations (DPR) has issued a list of Acceptable PPE Alternatives for Handling …
San Joaquin Valley Groundwater Plans: ‘Probably Not Realistic’
A recent review of groundwater plans for the San Joaquin Valley indicates that the methods for achieving sustainable levels determined by the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act may not be feasible. …
San Luis Obispo Addresses Farmworker Housing Locally
Agricultural industry members in San Luis Obispo County have been working with local county officials to address farmworker housing concerns. Executive Director of the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau, …
150 Ag and Water Groups Call for Water Relief
A group of 150 agricultural and water organizations is calling on federal officials to provide water relief for the Western United States. Two separate letters sent to President Donald Trump …
Organic Producers Faring Well Despite Upheaval of Food Supply Chain
Organic producers appear to be doing well in navigating the disruption in the food supply chain caused by COVID-19. A report that was released by the Organic Produce Network (OPN) …