ABA Applauds Strong Sugar Reform Vote, Disappointed In Outcome
June 21, 2012 | 2 min to read
Statement from ABA President & CEO Robb MacKie on the Senate vote against reforming the current U.S. sugar program:
“The Senate unfortunately affirmed that it is business as usual in Washington by voting against reforming the outdated sugar program. Instead of passing a measure that could have saved bakers and consumers over $3.5 billion a year in higher sugar costs, the Senate voted to continue a program that prevents bakers and other food manufacturers from reviving the economy.
“I would like to thank the many Senators that stood up for bakers, consumers and other food manufacturers by voting in favor of an amendment that could have added upwards of 20,000 jobs a year in food manufacturing. Those that voted for this amendment understand the importance of removing programs that impede job growth. The sugar program does just that, having caused the loss of over 125,000 jobs in the U.S. between 1997 and 2010.
“It is our hope that the House of Representatives will embrace the opportunity to reform the sugar program and allow bakers to expand their business and create jobs. The House Agriculture Committee has the next opportunity to take on this challenge in the coming weeks, with the full House following sometime this summer. ABA stands ready to support members of Congress as they seek to reform this egregious program.
About the American Bakers Association:
The American Bakers Association (ABA) is the Washington D.C.-based voice of the wholesale baking industry. Since 1897, ABA has represented the interests of bakers before the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, and international regulatory authorities. ABA advocates on behalf of more than 700 baking facilities and baking company suppliers. ABA members produce bread, rolls, crackers, bagels, sweet goods, tortillas and many other wholesome, nutritious, baked products for America’s families. The baking industry generates more than $102 billion in economic activity annually and employs more than 633,000 highly skilled people.
Source: American Bakers Association