American lawmakers are trying to help coffee growers in the United States and elsewhere with a new research initiative. Members of Congress proposed a bill to bolster an existing program to do more to fight pests and diseases afflicting coffee crops.
The Coffee Plant Health Initiative Amendments Act (CPHIAA, H.R. 966) was introduced by representatives Jill Tokuda and Ed Case of Hawaii as well as Jennifer González-Colón of Puerto Rico, and Garret Graves of Louisiana. Two Senators backed the bill: Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz, both of Hawaii. Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and California are the leading origins in the U.S.
The United States Department of Agriculture has since 1990 had a program that researches coffee borer beetles. The new initiative would expand USDA research to cover other coffee pests and diseases.
The bill was hailed by the National Coffee Association, World Coffee Research, Synergistic Hawaii Agricultural Council, and Hawaii Coffee Association.
“More Americans, 66% of adults, drink coffee each day than any other beverage. As agricultural research and development plays a crucial role in the future of America’s favorite beverage, NCA urges Congress to advance legislation that prioritizes coffee as a key contributor to Americans’ daily lives, farmers’ livelihoods, and the United States economy," said William “Bill” Murray, president and CEO of the NCA.
Administrator of SHAC Suzanne Shriner said that Hawaiian crops have suffered from such diseases as leaf rust, which cut yields in half in 2020 after causing US$1 billion in damage globally.
“From Kona to Maui to Mayaguez, coffee is a fundamental part of our island cultures and drives over US$500 million in benefits to our communities. This bill focuses needed research attention on our biggest problems, while helping our small farmers stay in business,” said Shriner.
Vern Long, CEO of World Coffee Research, said that the mainland coffee industry in the United States would also benefit from this research.
“United States coffee businesses and drinkers rely on coffee grown around the world. CPHIAA will enable much-needed research at a time when coffee is under severe strain. Public research aligned with industry needs is critical to securing the future of coffee,” Long said.