Agricultural Marketing Service October 29, 2013 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

This proposed rule would amend the Watermelon Research and Promotion Plan (Plan) importer membership requirements to serve on the National Watermelon Promotion Board (Board). The Board recommended eliminating the requirement that an importer import more than 50 percent of the total volume handled and imported in order to qualify as an importer member. This change would allow for additional parties to qualify as an importer member. This proposed rule also announces that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA or Department) will conduct a referendum among eligible producers, handlers, and importers of watermelons to determine whether they favor the amendment to the Plan.