WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after becoming a cosponsor of H.R. 112, the Emergency Citrus Disease Response Act which aims to combat an invasive citrus disease HLB, also known as “greening” effecting all 32 American commercial citrus producing counties:
Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after becoming a cosponsor of H.R. 112, the Emergency Citrus Disease Response Act which aims to combat an invasive citrus disease HLB, also known as “greening” effecting all 32 American commercial citrus producing counties:
“Every single child growing up in the Grand Canyon State can recite the ‘5 Cs’ of Arizona’s economy, and with good reason. As one of only four states that produce citrus, this industry continues to be one of the pillars of Arizona’s unique agricultural identity delivering untold prosperity for our local communities.
“Recently, growers have been confronted with a rare invasive disease that threatens to undermine the massive economic impact that citrus brings to Arizona. Proactive solutions are necessary from Congress to reduce the tax burden on growers who lose their crops so that they have an opportunity to reinvest and replant. In the meantime, the Department of Agriculture must prioritize funds for researching scientific remedies to end ‘greening’ once and for all. If we fail to take action now, Arizona could lose more than just one of our state’s ‘5 Cs’ but also countless jobs and economic growth that go with it.”
Background:
The full text of the Emergency Citrus Disease Response Act can be found HERE.
Congressman Gosar is a member of the Congressional Citrus Caucus which “provides a forum for Members of Congress and their staff to discuss current challenges and avenues to pursue potential areas of positive federal support for our nation’s citrus industry.”
