Mr. CRAIG. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the "Specialty Crop Competition Act of 2007." This bipartisan legislation co-sponsored by the distinguished Senator from Michigan, Senator Stabenow, increases the focus on the contribution that specialty crops add to the United States agricultural economy. This bill specifically provides the proper and necessary attention to many challenges faced throughout each segment of the industry.
Most do not realize the significance of specialty crops and their value to the U.S. economy and the health of U.S. citizens. According to the United States Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service, fruits and vegetables alone added $29.9 billion to the U.S. economy in 2002. This figure does not even include the contribution of nursery and other ornamental plant production, which our bill recognizes.
The specialty crop industry also accounts for more than $53 billion in cash receipts for U.S. producers, which is close to fifty-four percent of the total cash receipts for all crops. A surprising fact to some is that my state of Idaho is a top producer of specialty crops. Idaho proudly boasts production of cherries, table grapes, apples, onions, carrots, several varieties of seed crops and of course one of our most notable specialty crops, potatoes.
Maintaining a viable and sustainable specialty crop industry also benefits the health of America's citizens. Obesity continues to plague millions of people today and is a very serious and deepening threat not only to personal health and well-being, but to the resources of the economy as well. This issue is now receiving the necessary attention at the highest levels, and specialty crops will continue to play a prominent role in reversing the obesity trend.
The "Specialty Crop Competition Act" will also provide a stronger position for the U.S. industry in the global market arena. This legislation promotes initiatives that will combat diseases, both native and foreign, that continue to be used as non-tariff barriers to U.S. exports by foreign governments. Additionally, provisions in this bill seek improvements to federal regulations and resources that impede timely consideration of industry sanitary and phytosanitary petitions.
Mr. President, this bill does not provide direct subsidies to producers like other programs. This legislation takes a major step forward to highlight the significance of this industry to the agriculture economy, the benefits to the health of U.S. citizens, and the need for a stable, affordable, diverse, and secure supply of food.
Senator Stabenow, myself, and our co-sponsors fully intend to work with Chairman Harkin, Ranking Member Chambliss and the entire Senate Agriculture Committee to include this legislation in the new Farm Bill that Congress will soon be debating. Specialty crops have never sat at the head of the farm policy table, but their importance to our nation's health, security, and economy cannot be avoided any longer.
I look forward to working with my colleagues and the Administration to consider this comprehensive and necessary legislation as we begin to discuss new initiatives for the 2007 Farm Bill.
I yield the floor.