Industry Associations Welcome the Passage of the Farm Bill; Casey Creamer and Cathy Burns Comment

FRESNO, CA - The California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) commended the House of Representatives yesterday on the passage of the new Farm Bill, H.R. 7567, emphasizing its importance to California’s fresh fruit industry and specialty crop producers nationwide. The Association also recognized the collaborative efforts of lawmakers, industry leaders, and agricultural stakeholders who worked to advance policies that reflect the needs of specialty crop agriculture.

“California’s fresh fruit growers and shippers rely on strong federal support to remain competitive and sustainable,” said Casey Creamer, President of CFFA. “The passage of the Farm Bill ensures continued investment in programs that protect our commodities, expand market opportunities, and strengthen the future of American agriculture. CFFA is proud to be a member of the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance, which has played a vital role in advancing key priorities for our industry. We look forward to continuing our work with Senate leadership and remain hopeful that a final Farm Bill will be signed into law this year.”

The Farm Bill delivers critical investments in research, trade promotion, pest and disease prevention, and conservation programs that directly benefit California’s fresh fruit industry. These provisions are especially vital as growers navigate rising production costs, increasing global competition, and ongoing supply chain challenges.

The legislation also supports expanded access to healthy, nutritious food for Americans as the Trump Administration moves forward with implementing MAHA initiatives. Specialty crops, which includes fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, nursery products, and greenhouse commodities, play a significant role in supporting public health while contributing substantially to the U.S. economy each year.

CFFA remains committed to working with industry partners on behalf of its membership to ensure timely consideration and passage of the House’s Farm Bill in the Senate.

International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) President and CEO Cathy Burns also released the following statement on the House of Representatives’ passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026:

“The passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 by the U.S. House of Representatives is an important step toward delivering the certainty and stability America’s specialty crop growers urgently need. Specialty crop growers supply the fresh fruits and vegetables that are foundational to America’s health. A strong, five-year farm bill is essential to help these producers weather the unique pressures they face and keep fresh produce on the plate for families across the country. Alongside the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance, we urge the Senate to build on this momentum and advance a farm bill that provides strong support for specialty crop growers and strengthens the nation’s food system.”