SUMMARY

This bill makes the following changes to the laws governing agricultural marketing and bargaining.

1. It specifies that mediation of disputes between the handler and the qualified association may not continue for more than 3 consecutive days for annual crops.

2. It requires that, for matters submitted to arbitration, the arbitrator issue a decision that resolves the matter in a manner that is equal to either one of the final offers of the parties or within the parameters of either one of the final offers of the parties.

3. It requires that the list of arbitrators submitted contain the names of only those arbitrators who are available for the specific pending arbitration and have expressed a willingness to serve.

4. It assesses on nonmember producers an association fair share fee of 75% of the amount charged to members as fees.