Potato Industry at the Table for COVID-19 Relief Discussions

Members of the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance are working together to help the potato industry get relief during COVID-19. “When Congress started debating relief in 2020, we were at the table. We had a strong message, data and we were able to drive the funding that came forward. It’s been implemented different ways including the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program’s direct payments to growers. It’s also been in the Farmers to Families Food Box program,” said Tom Stenzel, CEO, United Fresh Produce Association. “It’s not everything we need, but it’s a testament to how the industry can work together under a crisis.” In December, Congress passed more COVID relief and the implementation is being closely watched. If there is additional COVID relief under the Biden administration, the potato industry would like to see more personal protective equipment for farm labor and the CFAP payment limit to be addressed.