Legislation
Floral associations push Congress for cost-saving measure
The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, a trade program that enables duty-free access to imported flowers, has been expired since January 2021.
More in Legislation
Application process for additional 30,000 H-2B visas now open
The application process will be accessible May 8-14 and applies to the 2019 fiscal year.
EPA releases draft guidelines for plant regulators
A document from the EPA identifies which biostimulant products are and are not subject to federal regulation.
USDA update on Farm Bill implementation progress
USDA held several listening sessions with stakeholders and the public, specific to each agency’s respective mission areas.
Trucking: agriculture commodity bill introduced
The bipartisan bill would provide a clear definition of “agricultural commodity” as it relates to transportation policy and new trucking regulations.
H-2B application processing changes to take effect in July
OFLC wants feedback on this procedural change that takes the start date and filing date into heavier consideration for the lottery system.
Up to 120 plant species considered for regulation in Pennsylvania
Regulatory actions range from licensing the propagation and growing of a species to complete bans on propagation, growing, possession or transport.
USDA announces $66 million for pest and disease management projects
2019 funding includes $1.7 million allocated for pollinator health projects.
House Democrats introduce bill to raise minimum wage
The bill would gradually increase the federal minimum wage to $15.
President Trump signs 2018 Farm Bill, legalizing hemp
The president signed the legislation into law Dec. 20, accelerating the hemp industry’s growth.
U.S. President Donald Trump signs 2018 Farm Bill into law
The bill includes funding for programs and incentives that promote specialty crop production and research.
