Dean Florez, deal-maker

The California state senator, a Democrat from Shafter, has been in the headlines on a fairly regular basis, often criticizing industry efforts to implement the leafy greens marketing agreement. Here is a story that looks at his desire for compromise with the industry.
From the Salinas Californian:

Pronouncing himself dissatisfied with the ag industry's efforts to regulate itself, Florez has introduced legislation for state regulation of leafy greens. Learning Friday, however, that he faces a likely veto by the governor even if he succeeded in winning legislative approval for his proposal, Florez said he's now considering the idea of a "hybrid commission" - an independent panel to ensure food safety - that combines his goals with some aspects of an industry leafy-greens marketing agreement that promises improved food-safety practices.'

TK: Florez, an investment banker by background, said he out to make a deal with the industry. Just how that would benefit the industry is not clear to me. The threat of a veto may have neutralized his potential influence, but I'm sure we will continue to see Dean Florez in the news.

Meanwhile, the first meeting of the California Leafy Green Products Handler Marketing Agreement is set for Friday Feb. 23 in Woodland. Serious heavy lifting is on tap; six hours were allotted for the meeting. Among the agenda items, according to the CDFA:

Discussion of minor amendments to marketing agreement
Discussion of contracts for management and inspection
Establishment of first year assessment rate and preliminary budget
Establishment of committees
Discussion and possible acceptance of industry metrics