AMS Seeks Comments on Continuation of Cotton Order Importer Assessments

The Agricultural Marketing Service is asking for comments on whether it should hold a referendum on the continuation of the cotton research and promotion order’s importer requirements, it said (here). The referendum would decide whether to continue amendments to the order adopted in 1990 that established a fee on imported cotton and cotton products and added importer representation to the Cotton Board. Even if it determines a referendum is not warranted, AMS will provide the opportunity to sign up for a referendum and will hold the referendum if requested by 10 percent of those voting in the most recent referendum (though not more than 20 percent from among cotton importers or a single state). Comments are due April 28.