Florida citrus assessment rate increased
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
This rule raises the assessment paid by Florida citrus handlers from $0.02 to $0.025 per 4/5-bushel carton, starting August 1, 2024, and leaving the rate in place until USDA changes it. It affects handlers of oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, and pummelos grown in Florida, and may also flow through to growers through pricing. The practical effect is a small but permanent increase in industry funding for the Florida citrus marketing order, meant to cover committee expenses and reduce use of reserves after lower shipment volumes and hurricane damage. Handlers should update payment calculations and budget for the higher charge on covered citrus shipments.
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Key Changes
- Raises the assessment rate from $0.02 to $0.025 per 4/5-bushel carton or equivalent.
- Applies to Florida oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, and pummelos handled under Marketing Order No. 905.
- Takes effect on August 1, 2024 and stays in place until USDA changes, suspends, or ends it.
Obligations
What this law requires
Florida citrus handlers must pay an assessment of $0.025 per 4/5-bushel carton or equivalent for oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, and pummelos grown in Florida handled under Marketing Order No. 905.
Handlers must apply the increased assessment rate to all assessable Florida citrus shipments covered by the order until USDA modifies, suspends, or terminates the rate.
Handlers must update their assessment-payment calculations and budgeting to reflect the higher per-carton charge for covered citrus shipments.
The Citrus Administrative Committee must continue to formulate an annual budget of expenses and collect handler assessments to administer the Florida citrus marketing order, subject to AMS approval.
The Citrus Administrative Committee should continue to meet before or during each fiscal period to recommend a budget and consider whether the assessment rate should be modified.