The Agricultural Marketing Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published a proposed rule and referendum order on October 8, 2026, that would amend Marketing Order No. 981 for California almonds. The amendment would authorize the Almond Board of California (ABC) to borrow from a commercial lending institution through a seasonal line of credit.
USDA said the proposal is intended to address timing gaps between ABC program expenditures and the collection of handler assessments. Borrowed funds would have to be repaid within a maximum of 12 months and would remain within approved crop-year budget ceilings. A grower referendum will run from November 2 through November 20, 2026.
