Schumer Pushes USDA to Save Concord Grapes | Albany News

Senator Chuck Schumer is rallying the USDA to buy up Concord grape products in a last-ditch effort to save struggling farmers after Refresco canceled contracts with over 100 growers. With crops rotting and prices crashing, farmers face financial ruin—and Schumer’s proposal taps into a 1935 law that lets the government purchase American food for schools and food banks. While this could offer short-term relief, industry leaders warn it’s not enough without long-term solutions like new markets and updated policies. As Congress nears agreement on the Farm Bill, Schumer says this emergency action doesn’t hinge on the bill passing—but time is running out for the Concord grape belt, which supports thousands of jobs and drives regional economies. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4d0972b63ffc510f