Moolenaar Secures Specialty Crop Funding in Agriculture Aid Package

Congressman John Moolenaar secured $1 billion for specialty crop producers in President Trump's economic aid package for agriculture. The President announced the aid in response to China's predatory trade practices that target American farmers. 

“For months, I have worked closely with the administration to ensure specialty crops are included in this relief package because these growers are essential to our food supply. Michigan is one of the most agriculturally diverse states in the country and this specialty crop aid will help our growers," said Moolenaar. "President Trump is countering China's predatory trade practices and we will have our farmers' backs." 

“This $1 billion bridge payment for specialty crop producers comes at a critical time for many struggling Michigan farms. Congressman Moolenaar is a champion for Michigan agriculture who takes our farmers’ concerns seriously and fights for them in Washington. We appreciate his support and look forward to working together on solutions to improve the farm economy, ” said Jacob Smith, the Associate National Legislative Counsel at Michigan Farm Bureau. 

In October, Moolenaar led a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins urging the department to prioritize specialty crops in upcoming economic relief efforts. The letter highlighted the importance of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, nursery crops, and floriculture to the nation’s food security and rural economy. Specialty crop producers have faced high labor costs, extreme weather, supply chain disruptions, and limited risk-management tools, placing them at greater risk of predatory trade practices by China. 

The economic aid package will respond directly to those concerns by allocating significant new resources for specialty crop growers. Congressman Moolenaar will continue to work closely with USDA and Michigan producers to ensure timely access to the aid. 

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