Press Release

September 20, 2017

For Immediate Release

Senators Introduce Legislation Strengthening Trade Programs for the Wheat Industry

Washington, D.C. (September 20, 2017) – Today, Senators Angus King (I-ME), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Joe Donnelly (D-IN) introduced the “Cultivating Revitalization by Expanding American Trade and Exports (CREAATE) Act” which will increase the funding for the Foreign Market Development Program from $34.5 million to $69 million annually and the Market Access Program from $200 million to $400 million. On May 03, 2017, Congressmen Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Chellie Pingree (D-ME) introduced the companion bill, CREAATE Act (HR 2321), in the House.

NAWG CEO Chandler Goule made the following statement:

“With the United States exporting 50% of its wheat, a strong trade agenda is essential for growing and opening new markets for wheat growers abroad.

“The Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) program have proven to have excellent return on investment and increase the global demand for wheat while raising farm income here at home.

“These programs provide the U.S. agricultural community with the tools needed to retain its edge in an increasingly competitive global economy.

“NAWG commends Senators King, Ernst, and Donnelly for working across party lines to introduce the CREAATE Act which will help American farmers create, expand, and maintain access to foreign markets.”

About NAWG

NAWG is the primary policy representative in Washington D.C. for wheat growers, working to ensure a better future for America’s growers, the industry and the general public. NAWG works with a team of 20 state wheat grower organizations to benefit the wheat industry at the national level. From their offices on Capitol Hill, NAWG’s staff members are in constant contact with state association representatives, NAWG grower leaders, Members of Congress, Congressional staff members, Administration officials and the public.