House Resolution No. by Representative Kerner urges the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to utilize the Commodity Procurement program under Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act to purchase domestic shrimp from Louisiana shrimpers. The resolution highlights the importance of Louisiana's shrimp industry to the state's economy and culture, noting the severe economic challenges faced by local shrimpers due to increased foreign imports, rising operational costs, and market instability. It emphasizes that purchasing Louisiana shrimp would provide immediate economic relief, support domestic food security, and ensure that nutritious seafood reaches families in need through federal nutrition assistance programs.
The resolution also points out that the USDA has previously purchased significant amounts of Louisiana shrimp to support local fishermen and manage surplus inventory. It stresses the need for continued USDA purchases to stabilize domestic shrimp prices and sustain the industry for the upcoming 2026 season. Additionally, the resolution encourages the USDA to collaborate with Louisiana's shrimp industry stakeholders to ensure effective procurement and distribution of domestically harvested shrimp. Copies of the resolution will be sent to the USDA secretary and the Louisiana congressional delegation to advocate for this initiative.