🌱USDA Withdraws Natural Grass Sod Promotion Program Proposal
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is withdrawing the proposed rule published in the Federal Register on December 10, 2024, that proposed a new grass sod research and promotion program under the Commodity Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 1996. The proposed Order was submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) by Turfgrass Producers International (TPI), a group of natural grass sod producers. AMS conducted a referendum among eligible producers to determine whether they favor establishing a national promotion, research, and information program (Program). After reviewing the results of the producer referendum, a simple majority of industry producers who voted in the referendum are not in favor of establishing a Program, and therefore, the proposed rule is being withdrawn.
Learn More🌱Rescinding Natural Grass Sod Promotion Order
This direct final rule rescinds the referendum procedures for the proposed Natural Grass Sod Promotion, Research, and Information Order (Sod Proposed Order), issued on December 10, 2024. The referendum failed and the Sod Proposed Order was not approved, therefore it is being withdrawn through a Notice which will also be published in the Federal Register. Therefore, the referendum procedures for the Sod Proposed Order are no longer necessary and AMS is rescinding the part in its entirety.
Learn More📜Clarifying Changes to Paper Packaging Promotion Regulation
This final rule implements clarifying amendments to the Paper and Paper-Based Packaging Promotion, Research and Information Order (Order). The amendments include an added definition for partnership; clarification of the nominations process; clarification about in person and electronic voting for any Board meetings; an update of the timing of financial reporting; and a revision of requirements for when exemptions can be requested. This final rule brings language in the Order up to date with current industry practices.
Learn More🍊Proposed Increase in Texas Citrus Assessment Rate for 2024-2025
This proposed rule would implement a recommendation from the Texas Valley Citrus Committee (Committee) to increase the assessment rate established for the 2024-2025 and subsequent fiscal periods from $0.03 to $0.04 per 7/10-bushel carton or equivalent of oranges and grapefruit grown in Texas. The proposed assessment rate would remain in effect indefinitely unless modified, suspended, or terminated.
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