COLUMBUS, OH – (September 11, 2025) — On Tuesday September 16, 2025, Michael Frantz, President of Frantz Wholesale Nursery Company LLC, will appear before the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture during a hearing titled “An Examination of the State of the Specialty Crop Industry”. Frantz, a second-generation business owner located in Hickman, CA, will testify on behalf of the green industry.
As a grower and past chairman of the AmericanHort advocacy committee, Frantz will share real-world insight into the dynamics that impact greenhouse and nursery operations across the country. Testimony will also highlight the importance of passing a Farm Bill and the innovation and resilience of growers as they work to provide essential products that feed, shade, and beautify communities nationwide.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to testify before the House Agriculture Committee and share the challenges and opportunities facing growers today. Representing my family farm, AmericanHort members, and the entire horticultural industry is an honor. I will work to ensure the voices of specialty crop growers are heard as policies are shaped that directly impact our ability to do business,” said Frantz.
AmericanHort President & CEO Ken Fisher emphasized the significance of the testimony: “We are pleased to be invited to be part of this hearing as our members’ perspectives are critical to shaping smart policy. We’re proud to have Michael share his expertise and ensure the needs of this industry are part of this important national conversation.”
AmericanHort is one of four organizations invited to give testimony at this hearing. The other participants include the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), and an economist.
The hearing will be held at 10:00 AM in the Longworth House Office Building, room 1300, and will be live streamed via the Committee’s website. A recording of the hearing will be made available afterwards on the House Agriculture Committee website, and at AmericanHort.org/HouseAgHearing.