Louisiana Farm Bureau Joins Groups Urging Congress to Support Cotton

The Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation is joining a broad coalition of agricultural organizations, cotton industry leaders and major retailers in urging Congress to support the bipartisan Buying American Cotton Act (H.R. 7230).

Introduced by Greg Murphy (R-NC) and Terri Sewell (D-AL), the legislation aims to strengthen demand for U.S.-grown cotton through market-based incentives that encourage retailers to sell products made, in whole or in part, with American cotton.

America’s cotton growers are facing mounting challenges, including low commodity prices, rising input costs and increased competition from foreign producers who benefit from government subsidies. The Buying American Cotton Act seeks to level the playing field by creating tax incentives tied to the volume of U.S. cotton used in finished goods, current market prices and where the cotton is processed.

Retailers selling products containing U.S. cotton that is fully processed in the United States or in countries with U.S. free trade agreements would receive the largest incentive. Products processed elsewhere would qualify for a smaller credit. In all cases, the bill is structured to drive stronger demand for American-grown fiber.

Supporters say the legislation would:

  • Increase demand and market revenue for U.S. cotton farmers

  • Encourage investment in domestic textile mills

  • Promote supply chain efficiency and regional stability

  • Create jobs in manufacturing, logistics and related industries

  • Help offset unfair advantages enjoyed by subsidized foreign competitors

U.S. consumers purchase the equivalent of roughly 40 million bales of textile and apparel products each year. While many consumers prefer to buy American-made goods, only a small percentage of the cotton in products sold domestically is grown in the United States.

By joining this coalition effort, Louisiana Farm Bureau is reinforcing its commitment to policies that support cotton producers, rural communities and the broader agricultural economy.

The organization is encouraging members of Congress to cosponsor the Buying American Cotton Act and send a strong signal of support to American farmers, mills, retailers and consumers alike.

Below is the full text of the letter to congressional committee leadership:

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Cotton, Louisiana Farm Bureaukristen oaks