In Final Action : Watermelon Growers’ Compensation

A bill has gone to the governor that allows the state to partially compensate California growers for their losses during a state ban on watermelon sales that was imposed while officials investigated illnesses linked to tainted melons. The Assembly passed the bill by Assemblyman Norm Waters (D-Plymouth) on a 45-26 vote to accept Senate amendments. Losses to farmers are expected to exceed $1 million as a result of the ban, which remained in force for several days last July until the crop was certified as safe again for consumption.