California walnut growers must pay their bills on time, or face new penalties

The US Department of Agriculture is tightening rules for California walnut handlers. They will now have a payment schedule for assessments, face interest and late fees on overdue payments, and must report walnut acquisitions differently.

For years, walnut handlers could delay paying their assessments without penalty, effectively getting an interest-free loan from the California Walnut Board. This change means the Board will have more predictable income and can enforce its rules more effectively. It shifts the cost of delayed payments from the Board to the handlers.