U.S. Cotton Growers Disappointed with MAHA Report

By Cotton Grower Staff|May 22, 2025

The U.S. cotton industry is disappointed with the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission’s report.

In a statement issued May 22, the National Cotton Council notes that, for decades, the Environmental Protection Agency has subjected pesticides to rigorous review and eliminated those that were deemed unsafe. Current products have been tested and re-tested to protect the farmer, the environment, and the consumer.

“Cotton producers have made significant strides in conscientious pesticide usage,” says cotton producer and NCC Chairman Patrick Johnson. “Crop protection tools such as glyphosate are vital for the continued sustainability of family farms here in the U.S.”

Regarding the report’s comments on microplastics, Johnson adds, “Cotton growers produce a natural fiber that is a healthy alternative to synthetic microfibers such as polyester. It is unfortunate that the Commission focused more on products that are known to be safe rather than on hazards such as microplastics, shed from synthetic clothing, that our children breathe.

“We urge U.S. agencies to continue to allow sound science to guide future policy decisions, and America’s cotton industry needs a seat at the table in this effort going forward.”