South Texas Onion Farmers Dodge Referendum Until 2032
Published Date: 5/26/2026
Rule
Summary
Onion growers in South Texas won’t have to vote in the usual 2026 continuance referendum because it’s temporarily paused. This pause lets the USDA focus on updating the marketing rules first, giving farmers time to adjust before the next vote, which won’t happen until 2032. The change kicks in May 26, 2026, and could affect how onions are marketed and sold, but no extra costs are expected right now.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Rulemaking May Change Marketing Rules
AMS paused the continuance referendum to give precedence to formal rulemaking (a notice of hearing was published January 23, 2026) to amend Marketing Order No. 959. If amendments are made and implemented, the industry will operate under the amended Order before the next continuance referendum, and this could affect how onions are marketed and sold.
2026 Continuance Referendum Paused
If you are a producer or handler of onions grown in South Texas, you will not be required to vote in the continuance referendum scheduled for 2026 because Sec. 959.84(d) is stayed from May 26, 2026 through January 1, 2032. The rule says the next scheduled continuance referendum will be conducted in 2032.
No New Reporting or Costs Expected
The rule states it will not impose any additional reporting or recordkeeping requirements on South Texas onion handlers and that the Order's existing information collection (OMB No. 0581-0178) remains unchanged. The agency also indicates no extra costs are expected at this time.
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