Cotton Farmers: Keep 1990 Promo Rules or Ditch Them?
Published Date: 9/4/2026
Notice
Summary
As provided for by the Cotton Research and Promotion Act Amendments of 1990, the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is announcing its intention to conduct a review to ascertain whether a referendum is needed to determine whether producers and importers favor continuation of five specific amendments to the Cotton Research and Promotion Order (Order). This notice invites all interested parties to submit written comments to the Department of Agriculture (USDA or Department). USDA will consider these comments in determining whether a referendum is warranted on the five specific amendments.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Assessments on Imported Cotton
The program is financed through assessments levied on both domestic and imported cotton and cotton-containing products; one 1990 amendment explicitly provides for assessing imported cotton and cotton products. If you import cotton or cotton products, assessments under this Order apply to those imports.
Producers Lose Refund Right
One 1990 amendment terminates the right of a producer to demand a refund of assessments. If you are a cotton producer, you would no longer be able to demand a refund of assessments collected under the program.
2026 Review and Referendum Process
In 2026 the Secretary of Agriculture will review the 1990 amendments and decide whether a referendum is needed. If a referendum is required, the Secretary will hold it within 12 months after announcing the decision; if not, a sign-up period will be offered and a referendum will be held if requested by 10 percent or more of those who voted in the most recent referendum, provided no more than 20 percent of requests come from any one State or from importers of cotton.
Importer Representation on Cotton Board
The 1990 amendments provided for importer representation on the 37-member Cotton Board, so importers have designated seats and alternates on the Board alongside producers. If you are an importer of cotton, this amendment affects who represents importers in program decisions.
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Key Dates
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