7 U.S.C. § 5678 — Edward R. Madigan United States Agricultural Export Excellence Award

(a) Findings. Congress finds that United States^* agricultural producers are highly productive; export-market growth is crucial to United States rural areas and agriculture; exports exceeded $54 billion in 1995; new and larger markets are vital as producers respond to market signals; and an export-excellence award will increase exports by (A) identifying entities’ new products, services, and marketing methods, (B) recognizing successful entrepreneurial efforts or assistance, and (C) sharing successful methods. (b) An Edward R. Madigan United States Agricultural Export Excellence Award is established as a medal bearing that inscription; the Secretary^* of Agriculture chooses its design, materials, and additional inscriptions. (c) The President or Secretary, based on the board’s recommendations, may periodically award it to companies or other entities that substantially encourage food-and-agriculture entrepreneurship advancing United States exports. (d) The President or Secretary presents it with ceremonies considered proper. (e) The recipient may publicize and use it in advertising. (f) Separate awards may be given for (1) new products or services, (2) new export markets, and (3) creative marketing. (g) An entity qualifies only if it (1) applies in writing to the board or is recommended by a Governor, (2) made significant entrepreneurial efforts or gave significant assistance to create markets or increase exports, (3) has not won in that category in the preceding 5 years, and (4) meets other requirements the Secretary sets. (h) The Secretary appoints at least 5 private-sector evaluators knowledgeable about exporting United States agricultural products. The board meets at least yearly, reviews applicants and State recommendations, reports recommendations to the Secretary, and each member may serve up to 3 years. (i) The Secretary may seek and accept public or private gifts.