Tuberville, Moore Reintroduce Bill to Increase Healthier Options for Seniors, Boost Alabama Pecan and Tree Nut Farmers
Farmers’ Market Expansion Act would make pecans, other tree nuts available under the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and U.S. Representative Barry Moore (R-AL-01) are renewing efforts to support Alabama farmers and improve senior nutrition by reintroducing the Farmers’ Market Expansion Act. The proposed legislation aims to make pecans and other tree nuts eligible for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). The bill, which was first reported by AgriPulse, would allow low-income seniors to use SFMNP benefits to purchase locally grown pecans and other shelled nuts.
The legislation enjoys bipartisan Congressional and wide industrial support. Senator Ben Luján (D-NM) has joined Sen. Tuberville in introducing the measure, while Rep. Barry Moore is leading the companion bill in the House. Supporters argue that expanding the program would strengthen Alabama’s agricultural industry and improve seniors’ access to nutrient-dense foods.
“The Farmers’ Market Expansion Act would be a huge win for both our seniors and tree nut farmers by making it easier for seniors to incorporate pecans into their diet,” said Senator Tuberville. “Not only are pecans delicious, but they are a great source of nutrients needed for brain, bone, and heart health. I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Congressman Moore to support Alabama’s farmers and Americans seeking healthier lives.”
Representative Moore echoed these sentiments, highlighting the potential benefits for both consumers and producers. “Adding tree nuts, especially shelled pecans, to the SFMNP benefits Alabama producers and seniors,” he said. “Pecans are an important part of Alabama’s agriculture, and we are hopeful this legislation creates competitive markets for our tree nut producers.”
The bill has received strong support from key agricultural organizations, including the National Pecan Federation, Southeastern Pecan Growers Association, Almond Alliance, American Pistachio Growers, and California Walnut Commission. Alabama-based groups, such as the Alabama Pecan Growers Association (APGA), Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA), and the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries, have also endorsed the measure.
Brian Futral, President of the APGA, emphasized the potential market growth for pecan farmers. “The attention to the pecan industry in Alabama continues to grow. The opportunity for pecans to be added to the Senior Market Nutrition Program would be a huge win for Alabama growers,” he said.
Rick Pate, Alabama’s Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries, noted the program’s broader impact. “Alabama is home to 170 farmers markets and 114 farm stands that would benefit from adding tree nuts to the SFMNP,” said Pate. “Adding pecans to this program would provide our seniors with another healthy choice in addition to fresh produce, while also supporting Alabama’s hardworking pecan growers.”
The Almond Alliance also voiced support, with President and CEO Alexi Rodriguez stating that the bill would benefit both consumers and producers by incorporating locally grown, nutrient-rich tree nuts into the program.
Alabama ranks eighth nationally in pecan production, with growers harvesting approximately 3 million pounds of pecans from 9,000 pecan-bearing acres in 2022. According to the USDA’s 2022 Census of Agriculture, the state had 762 producers managing over 7,200 pecan-bearing acres.
The SFMNP serves low-income seniors aged 60 and older, providing fresh, locally grown produce through farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. In fiscal year 2022, the program benefited 757,751 seniors nationwide and supported 15,089 farmers. Alabama has more than 54,000 eligible seniors, but current regulations prevent them from using program benefits to purchase tree nuts.
Senator Tuberville’s renewed push for this legislation comes after numerous Alabama pecan farmers raised concerns during Farm Bill listening sessions. These farmers reported strong interest from seniors who want to buy pecans through the program but are currently unable to do so due to federal restrictions.
If passed, the Farmers’ Market Expansion Act would remove this barrier, opening new markets for tree nut producers while improving seniors’ access to healthy, locally grown food.
