IRVINE, Calif. (May 26, 2016) — Statement by Western Growers President and CEO Tom Nassif commending the U.S. House of Representatives on passage of an amendment to the Senate-passed energy bill that includes drought relief legislation introduced by Representative David Valadao (CA-21):

“We are pleased that the House has incorporated Representative Valadao’s drought relief legislation into an amendment to the Senate-passed energy bill, which will compel much-needed dialogue between the two chambers as they negotiate the final language in conference.

Our champions in both the House and Senate agree that the policies restricting water capture and storage in California are flawed and are harming thousands of people in the state. Indeed, there are substantial areas of common ground between the principal proposals (by Sen. Feinstein and Rep. Valadao) that can serve as the foundation for a bipartisan solution to the regulatory drought facing California.

Additionally, Valadao’s legislation addresses priorities critical to the future water security of other western states, including the expansion of water infrastructure and storage projects and protection of private water rights.

The ball is now in the Senate’s court. We urge all of the western senators to engage their House counterparts in good faith with an eye toward producing a compromise that is acceptable to all stakeholders and beneficial to their respective constituents throughout the region. The moment has arrived for our elected leaders to prove they can resolve real problems, helping to restore our confidence in government.”

About Western Growers:
Founded in 1926, Western Growers represents local and regional family farmers growing fresh produce in Arizona, California and Colorado. Our members and their workers provide half the nation’s fresh fruits, vegetables and tree nuts, including nearly half of America’s fresh organic produce. For generations we have provided variety and healthy choices to consumers. Connect with and learn more about Western Growers on our Twitter and Facebook.

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