Federal Register #2026-16723

Final rule amending administrative requirements for California walnut handlers under Federal marketing order

The Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has issued a final rule amending administrative requirements for California walnut handlers under the Federal marketing order. - Government Buyer: - Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) - California Walnut Board (local administrator) - No OEMs or vendors are involved; this is a regulatory action, not a procurement. - Key Regulatory Changes: - Establishes a defined schedule for handler assessment payments - Handlers must pay assessments in three equal installments invoiced by the Board - Sets penalties and interest for late payments - 10% penalty for late payments - 1.5% monthly interest on overdue assessments - Updates reporting requirements for walnut acquisitions - Requires revised reports for acquisitions after the initial reporting deadline - Notable Requirements: - Changes are designed to improve compliance and efficiency in assessment collection - Strengthens program administration for walnut handlers in California - No products, part numbers, or quantities are requested; this is not a procurement opportunity.

Description

This final rule implements changes to the administrative requirements under the Federal marketing order for walnuts grown in California. It establishes a schedule for handler assessment payments, sets interest and late payment charges on overdue assessments, and modifies reporting requirements for handler acquisitions of walnuts. The rule aims to enhance the efficiency of assessment collection and strengthen program administration. These changes were unanimously approved by the California Walnut Board and are effective from September 16, 2026.

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