NEWS: Sen. Schiff Joins Sullivan, Murkowski, and King in Introduction of American Grown Act

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) joined Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Angus King (I-Maine) in introducing the American Grown Act, legislation requiring the Executive Office of the President, the Department of Defense, and the Department of State to only procure cut flowers and cut greens grown in the United States. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.-24) introduced companion legislation in the House.

"The American flower industry, and California in particular, grows vibrant flowers and greenery, and it's important that the hard work of our country's growers is supported," said Senator Schiff. "Our bipartisan bill ensures that the federal government continues to boost this robust industry while creating jobs and promoting American-grown products."

"If there's one cause that can bring members of Congress together, it's the commitment to Buy American," said Senator Sullivan. "Every year, our federal agencies purchase millions of dollars' worth of flowers and greenery for official events and ceremonies using taxpayer dollars. This money should benefit our American farmers and growers. By making this straightforward, patriotic principle the law of the land, we can support the men and women who power this industry-including the hundreds of hardworking growers right here in Alaska."

"Alaska's floriculture industry has rightfully garnered global recognition, as we grow the largest, most vibrant peonies in the world. It is well past time that our domestic federal agencies-particularly the White House, State Department, and Department of Defense-support American cut-flower growers and strengthen local economies that benefit from this industry," said Senator Murkowski. "I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation once again, and sincerely hope my colleagues join us in standing up for American grown and domestic jobs."

"When the federal government spends taxpayer dollars on American-made products, those funds help small businesses, including many Maine people, succeed right here at home," said Senator King. "Under the current system, the vast majority of flowers and cut greens purchased by the U.S. government are foreign grown, meaning the economic benefits are flowing to foreign markets. The American Grown Act is an opportunity to prioritize American-grown flowers, a simple fix that will boost both our flower industry and economy at large."

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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