The Washington Winegrowers Association, in partnership with the Washington Wine Institute, head to Washington DC in early May to represent the Washington wine industry to policymakers. 

In preparation, Winegrowers coordinated a meeting of partners, including the Washington Department of Agriculture, Washington State University, Washington State Wine Commission, and Washington Wine Institute to clarify and amplify message points on issues of joint interest.  Staff then worked with the Winegrowers Government Affairs Committee to confirm comprehensive coverage of priority issues.  

Winegrowers messages will include emphasis on passage of a Farm Bill this year, support for Special Crop Emergency Assistance Program, funding for smoke exposure research, continued protection of winegrapes from enforcement of the Produce Safety Rule, and funding for research infrastructure at Land Grant Universities.  Impacts of inadequate USDA staffing and ICE enforcement are also anticipated to be included.