The long annual August recess began early this year when House Speaker Mike Johnson sent everyone home so they couldn’t vote on a bill related to Jeffrey Epstein, meaning they have an even longer vacation than normal. That also means DC will be quiet, but there are still a couple items worth mentioning.
Tariffs: The US and European Union (EU) have reached a trade framework which includes no mention of alcohol beverages, so WineAmerica as part of a coalition has requested a “zero-for-zero” framework, meaning no tariffs in either direction. A European industry coalition is doing the same, since trade in both directions is very important. For US wines, Europe is the second largest export market after Canada (which is essentially shut down to our wines due to US tariff initiatives and other actions). Fingers crossed.
Immigration: WineAmerica has for decades supported legislative proposals for immigration reform that would be effective, efficient, and humane, given the importance of skilled migrant labor to the grape and wine industry. Right before Congress left, a new bipartisan bill was introduced by Representatives from Florida and Texas which we believe may hold promise. However, decades of failure in this complex arena must make any optimism cautious. Michael Kaiser wrote a detailed history of this issue that was sent to all WineAmerica members.