[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 145 (Thursday, October 16, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2061]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         SECTION 8e LEGISLATION

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                           HON. DOC HASTINGS

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 16, 2003

  Mr. HASTINGS of Washington. Mr. Speaker, Washington state the largest 
pear and sweet cherry producing state in the nation. In recent years 
pear and cherry growers in Central Washington have invested time and 
resources into developing the market for high quality fruit.
  Under federal marketing orders U.S. fruits and vegetables are held to 
certain grade, size and quality standards. The bill I am introducing 
today simply holds foreign grown pears and cherries to these same 
standards.
  My bill would add pears and cherries to Section 8e of the 
Agricultural Adjustment Act. Section 8e lists certain imported fruits 
and vegetables that are held to the same federal requirements as 
domestic produce.
  Agriculture is at the heart of Central Washington's economy and our 
farmers are working harder than ever to produce some of the world's 
finest products. My bill would ensure that our pear and cherry farmers 
are able to compete more fairly and aggressively with foreign growers 
in the U.S. marketplace.




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