Specialty Crop & Wine Producer Tariff Relief Act
Summary
The Specialty Crop & Wine Producer Tariff Relief Act aims to provide direct payments to specialty crop growers and wine producers who have experienced financial losses due to increased tariff burdens imposed by other countries. The bill directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a program for these payments and allows for the purchase of surplus crops for nutrition assistance programs. It also mandates regular reporting to Congress on the program's activities and authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 2026 through 2030.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would provide financial relief to specific agricultural sectors affected by retaliatory tariffs. This could stabilize these industries and prevent further economic hardship for growers and producers. The purchase of surplus crops could also benefit nutrition programs by providing food assistance to those in need.
Potential Benefits
- Provides direct financial assistance to specialty crop and wine producers facing economic hardship due to tariffs.
- Helps stabilize agricultural markets and prevent further losses in the affected sectors.
- Supports nutrition assistance programs by purchasing surplus crops for distribution.
- Offers a mechanism for addressing trade-related economic challenges in agriculture.
- May encourage continued production and innovation within the specialty crop and wine industries.
Potential Disadvantages
- The program's administrative costs could reduce the overall funds available for direct payments.
- The focus on specific sectors may create disparities compared to other agricultural industries.
- The effectiveness of the program depends on accurate assessment of losses and efficient distribution of payments.
- Potential for unintended consequences or market distortions due to government intervention.
- The program is temporary, ending in 2030, which may not provide long-term stability.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to provide for the general welfare of the United States. By providing assistance to specific agricultural sectors facing economic hardship, the bill could be argued to promote economic stability and food security, contributing to the overall welfare of the nation. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).