US HB6496

Secretary of Agriculture must establish a direct payment program within 180 days for specialty crop growers and wine producers experiencing losses from foreign retaliatory tariffs imposed on or after January 20, 2025

Covered losses include reduced exports, lost revenue from decreased foreign demand, cancelled contracts, and increased costs related to handling perishable crops (specialized equipment, packaging, labor, and rapid transport)

Secretary may purchase surplus specialty crops (excluding wine grapes) for distribution through federal nutrition programs including school breakfast, school lunch, and SNAP

Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 2026 through 2030, with administrative costs capped at 1% of program funds

Requires annual reports to Congress through 2030 detailing direct payments and surplus crop purchases, organized by crop type and region