Update on AB 2606 – California Agave Commission Bill
The California Agave Council is actively gathering feedback on AB 2606, the legislation that lays the groundwork for establishing a California Agave Commission. This feedback phase will continue through the end of 2025, aiming to incorporate a broad range of perspectives from growers, processors, and industry partners. Based on this input, we anticipate collaborating with the legislature in early 2026 to introduce a bill reflecting the agreed-upon changes. The CA Agave Council will not be petitioning CDFA for activation of AB 2606 in its present form.
The legislative process typically spans approximately nine months. Therefore, any enacted changes would likely take effect on January 1, 2027. Consequently, the earliest a vote to initiate the Commission could occur would be in early 2027.
We will continue to share updates and opportunities for discussion through our newsletter and social media channels. To stay informed and participate in the conversation, sign up for our newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/californiaagave/survey.We welcome your feedback at any time via email at Info@CaliforniaAgave.org.
What is a Commission, and Why is it Important?
A Commission is a grower-led, state-recognized organization that invests in education, research, marketing, and policy efforts through a transparent structure. Commissions have helped many California crops thrive, providing a framework for collective action and industry development.
Key Features of the Proposed California Agave Commission:
Nominal Cost per Pound: A small, per-pound fee collected by processors at harvest, ensuring contributions align with actual production. This approach, refined from the original acreage-based proposal, offers a more equitable and sustainable funding model for the long term.
Grower Rights: One grower equals one vote, regardless of size, protecting the interests of small and large growers alike.
Industry Control: Funds managed by an elected board of growers and processors, ensuring decisions are made by those directly involved in the industry.
Built-in Accountability: The Commission must be renewed by a majority vote every five years, allowing for regular reassessment of its effectiveness.
Equitable Cost-Sharing: No single entity bears the financial burden alone; costs are shared fairly across the industry.
The California agave industry is at a pivotal point of growth. Careful planning and investment are essential to ensure a strong future. Establishing a Commission is a crucial step toward creating the organization, stability, and shared resources needed to move the industry forward. It will also provide growers, investors and companies with confidence that the industry has a cohesive plan and the support necessary for successful growth.
We appreciate all the feedback received thus far and encourage ongoing input as we work together to shape the future of California's agave industry.
