American Grown Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Sullivan, Dan [R-AK]
- Committees
- Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 29, 2025
Bottom line
The bill aims to boost the domestic cut flower and green industry by requiring key federal agencies to prioritize American-grown products in their procurement and display practices.
What it actually does
This bill, titled the 'American Grown Act,' mandates that the Executive Office of the President, the Department of Defense, and the Department of State must procure cut flowers and cut greens grown in the United States or its territories. It also establishes specific conditions for these agencies to accept gifts of foreign-grown cut flowers or greens from foreign governments or their agents, requiring concurrent display of a domestically grown equivalent and clear labeling of origin.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill will strengthen the American agricultural sector, particularly the cut flower and green industry, by ensuring federal dollars support domestic jobs and businesses. They contend it promotes economic security and national pride by showcasing American products in official government settings and diplomatic engagements.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that this mandate could lead to increased costs for federal agencies due to potentially higher prices for domestically sourced products compared to international markets. They may also raise concerns about potential impacts on international trade relations or the administrative burden of managing the dual display requirement for diplomatic gifts.
The bill is very short and clear, making it highly accessible for immediate understanding and evaluation by any interested reader.
Section 2(b)
Domestic Procurement Requirement for Cut Flowers and Greens
This provision mandates that the Executive Office of the President, the Department of Defense, and the Department of State may only use appropriated funds to purchase cut flowers and cut greens that are grown within a U.S. state, the District of Columbia, a U.S. territory or possession, or an area subject to a federally recognized Indian Tribe's jurisdiction. This requirement applies to all procurements made or contracted for in the United States, starting one year after the bill's enactment.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly supports American agriculture, fostering job creation and economic growth in communities involved in the cut flower and green industry. They believe it reinforces 'Buy American' principles and ensures that taxpayer dollars are reinvested domestically.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that this mandate could lead to federal agencies paying higher prices for flowers and greens, as domestic options may be more expensive than imported ones. They could also argue it limits choice and flexibility in procurement, potentially impacting the aesthetic or specific needs for certain events.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire to support domestic industries and jobs against potential increases in procurement costs for federal agencies and possible limitations on product availability or variety.
Section 2(c)
Conditions for Accepting Foreign-Grown Floral Gifts
This provision outlines specific rules for covered agencies when accepting gifts of cut flowers or greens from foreign governments or their agents if those items were not grown in a qualifying U.S. area. Agencies may only accept such gifts for display if the origin of the gift is clearly displayed upon delivery, and the agency simultaneously procures and displays an additional cut flower or green grown in a qualifying U.S. area. The origin of the foreign gift must remain clearly displayed throughout its exhibition.