Jul 21, 2023

Congressional resolution supports checkoff programs

A coalition of marketing orders and research and promotion boards for specialty crops and other agriculture sectors have endorsed a congressional resolution supporting their activities.

The groups, also known as checkoff programs, supported the resolution in response to legislation that would place limits on their activities. The current legislation, the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act, was introduced in the Senate and House this year.

The checkoff programs promote, research and set standards for numerous agriculture commodities. They are grower-funded and must be approved by a majority of growers through referendums, usually every five years.

The OFF Act would:

• Prohibit checkoff programs from contracting with any organization that lobbies on agricultural policy.
• Prohibit employees and agents of the checkoff boards from engaging in activities that may involve a conflict of interest.
• Establish uniform standards for checkoff programs that prohibit anti-competitive activity, unfair or deceptive acts or any practice that may be disparaging to another agricultural commodity or product.

Rep. Barry Moore, R-Alabama, introduced the resolution.

“Checkoff programs have made significant, measurable strides in raising the level of demand and awareness for our farmers, ranchers and foresters’ products,” Moore said in a statement on his website. “This resolution expresses congressional support for checkoffs due to the research, education and promotion efforts they have provided to our producers.”

The resolution notes the importance of research and promotion boards in developing and strengthening new and existing markets, promoting agriculture research and advancements and increasing consumer awareness of U.S.-grown commodities.

Groups signing the resolution include those that promote watermelons, potatoes, mangoes, mushrooms, Hass avocados, blueberries and pecans.