Thompson Secures $1.2 Million for UC Davis Smoke Taint Research

Washington – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) announced that $1,205,966 for University of California, Davis to conduct smoke exposure research is included in the final 2023 appropriations government funding bill.

“The research being accomplished at UC Davis is vital to the wellbeing of grape growers and the entire wine community,” said Thompson. “I am proud to have secured this funding for UC Davis to invest in equipment that will benefit their research and help us understand the impact of wildfires on grapes and other agricultural products in our region.

“Proud to have secured this funding and I look forward to seeing President Biden sign this bill into law.”

The funding amount for projects in Yolo County included in the government funding bill is $1,205,966 for UC Davis to acquire two pieces of equipment which are essential for grape smoke exposure research.

Rep. Thompson also secured $3.7 billion for the Emergency Relief Program (ERP, formerly known as WHIP+) for agricultural losses sustained in 2022 due to wildfires, drought, freeze, and other natural disasters. Our growers have been facing an unprecedented drought, and this program will help producers to rebuild and recover by providing financial assistance to cover a portion of their losses. This program is important because it helps to ensure that farmers and ranchers have the resources they need to continue operating their businesses, even in the face of natural disasters. It also helps to stabilize rural communities and keep the agricultural sector strong, which is vital for maintaining a secure and reliable food supply for the country.

This bill passed the Senate by vote of 68-29. The bill passed the House by a vote of 225-201-1. It will now go to President Biden’s desk for his signature. A detailed summary of the bill is available here.