Don Young American Grown Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Carbajal, Salud O. [D-CA-24]
- Committees
- Armed Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 29, 2025
Bottom line
The bill requires certain federal buildings to exclusively display U.S.-grown cut flowers and greens, aiming to support domestic agriculture.
What it actually does
This bill, titled the 'Don Young American Grown Act,' mandates that all cut flowers and cut greens officially displayed in public areas of buildings belonging to the Executive Office of the President, the Department of State, or the Department of Defense must be produced in the United States. It defines 'produced in the United States' as grown in any of the several States, the District of Columbia, a U.S. territory or possession, or an area subject to the jurisdiction of a federally recognized Indian Tribe. The limitation does not apply to personal displays by federal officers or employees and takes effect one year after enactment.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill strengthens the American floriculture and horticulture industries by creating a guaranteed market for domestic producers within federal government operations. They contend it promotes economic growth, supports American jobs, and ensures that federal displays reflect a commitment to American agriculture and local economies. Furthermore, proponents may highlight the symbolic importance of displaying American-grown products in prominent federal buildings.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that this bill could lead to increased costs for federal agencies if imported flowers and greens are cheaper or more readily available, potentially impacting budget efficiency. They may also contend that it could limit aesthetic choices or availability of certain varieties, and that it represents a form of protectionism that could invite retaliatory measures from other countries, potentially harming broader trade relations.
The bill is very short and straightforward, making it highly accessible for a reader to understand its core provisions quickly.
Section 2(a)
Mandate for U.S.-Produced Cut Flowers and Greens
This provision establishes a requirement that any cut flowers or cut greens officially displayed in public areas of buildings managed by the Executive Office of the President, the Department of State, or the Department of Defense must have been grown within the United States. This means that for official decorations in these specific federal entities, only domestically sourced floral and green products are permitted.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly supports American farmers and businesses in the floriculture sector, fostering economic resilience and job creation. They believe it aligns federal spending with national interests by prioritizing domestic production.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that this mandate could lead to higher costs for federal agencies if U.S.-produced flowers and greens are more expensive than imported alternatives, potentially diverting funds from other critical agency functions. They may also point to potential limitations in variety or availability.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the goal of supporting domestic industries against potential increases in federal procurement costs and limitations on product selection. It also raises questions about the extent of government intervention in market choices for decorative purposes.
Section 2(c)
Definition of 'Produced in the United States'
This section explicitly defines what constitutes 'produced in the United States' for the purposes of the bill. It clarifies that a cut flower or green meets this criterion if it is grown in any of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, any U.S. territory or possession, or any area under the jurisdiction of a federally recognized Indian Tribe. This broad definition ensures that products from various domestic regions are eligible.