Checkoff Funds
Background
The Arkansas Corn and Grain Sorghum Checkoff Program was established following Act 271 of the 1997 Arkansas General Assembly. The checkoff was approved by a referendum of producers in February and March of 1998, and collections began July 1, 1998. The assessment is levied to promote the growth and development of the corn and grain sorghum industry in Arkansas by research, extension, promotion and market development. The assessment is reported and paid by the purchaser. Monthly reporting forms are mailed out by the Miscellaneous Tax Section and are required to be completed and filed by the 15th day of each month following the report month.
National Checkoff Funds
The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) began collecting the national sorghum checkoff on July 1, 2008, which is based on 0.6% of the value of the crop. The national checkoff is sent to the national board where between 15 and 25 percent is passed back to the state. The remainder is used to fund sorghum research and promotion at the national level. This checkoff does not preclude the collection of a state checkoff. Until state legislative action is taken, Arkansas will continue to collect its state checkoff.
Elevators looking for information about remitting the national checkoff please contact Craig Shackelford at 202-720-1123 or craig.shackelford@usda.gov.