jan-feb-2019

with export funding. Almonds were successfully moved to direct payments, which some growers received, and we anticipate receiving assistance with exports. Close attention is being given to the ongoing negotiations with China. Negotiators with the U.S. are working with China trying to find a solution to the trade dispute between the two countries. A very difficult task is ahead of these negotiators, but success could mean the duty on almonds will be reduced to the original level — or even lower. The President has announced that the U.S. will obtain a trade agreement with Japan. This is an important move that will benefit the almond industry. Last year, the U.S. successfully completed the negotiation to improve NAFTA. Now called USMCA, it will be necessary to obtain Congressional approval with many House Democrats calling for amendments before approving. The renegotiation of KORUS was also completed last year and has now been approved by both countries. The U.S. is considering other new trade agreements and we will continue to be closely involved. Immigration Reform The House Democrats indicate they will work on immigration reform, which is needed and should be helpful; it’s too early to know what position the Senate will take on this issue. We will continue to ensure E-Verify is not adopted into law without an effective guest worker program. The House will address DACA this year, separate from the guest worker program. Tax Reform Tax reform took center stage in 2018. Our efforts were specifically directed to Section 199, which is important to the cooperative and its growers. Section 199 was successfully retained, but the House Democrats have announced they plan to increase corporate taxes and may also increase taxes on wealthy individuals with a suggested corporate rate of 28 percent. Blue Diamond Advocate Julian Heron, Partner, Tuttle Taylor & Heron Tell your dealer you want Fan-Jets. Contact us at 1-800-BOWSMITH or www.bowsmith.com AmericanMade.AmericanOwned. Fan-Jet Microsprinklers ® • Salt build up problem? - Fan-Jets will allow you to push salts down and away from the root zone. • Annual frost events? - Fan-Jets can help provide frost protection by raising the ambient temperature by 2-3 degrees. • Problem pushing pre-emergents into your soil? - Fan-Jets will help your pre-emergents penetrate the soil. Add a Fan-Jet ® line to existing dual line drip Why? Quality & Trust Since 1974 Quality & Trust Since 1974 2 1 J A N U A R Y – F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9