Summary of H.Res. 1184 (119th Congress, 2nd Session)

Title

Recognizing and honoring National Mushroom Day and the contributions of Chester and Berks Counties to the national mushroom industry and to healthy diets.

Purpose and intent

• Officially recognize June 1 as National Mushroom Day.
• Honor the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with a focus on Chester and Berks Counties, for their significant role in the national mushroom industry.
• Acknowledge the contribution of mushrooms to healthy diets and whole-food nutrition.

Key provisions and changes

• The resolution makes three core statements:

  1. Recognition of National Mushroom Day (June 1).
  2. Honors Chester and Berks Counties, Pennsylvania, for their unparalleled contributions to the national mushroom industry.
  3. Recognizes the role mushrooms play in a healthy diet rich in whole foods.

• The resolution summarizes historical and economic context about the mushroom industry in the Chester-Berks County region, including:

  • The long history of mushroom cultivation starting in France (1651) and regional development.
  • The origin of the modern Chester County mushroom industry with the 1885 innovation of cultivating mushrooms beneath greenhouse benches in Kennett Square.
  • The claim that over 60% of United States mushrooms are now grown in Chester and Berks Counties.
  • The presence of a mix of large and small, often multigenerational family farms, and collaboration among growers.
  • Economic impact claims: approximately 10,000 workers employed locally and an estimated $2.7 billion economic impact in Chester County.
  • Environmental and sustainability notes: a circular economy model using agricultural byproducts and innovative practices to protect ecosystems.
  • Nutritional and culinary context: mushrooms noted for versatility, affordability, flavor (umami), and nutritional benefits, including being fat-free, cholesterol-free, low in calories and sodium, and part of diets emphasizing whole foods.

Affected parties

• Primary beneficiaries and recognitions:
  • The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, particularly Chester and Berks Counties, which are highlighted for their mushroom industry contributions.
  • Mushroom growers, farmworkers, and associated agribusinesses in the region.
  • Consumers who benefit from mushrooms as a nutritious, versatile food.
• The resolution itself does not impose regulatory requirements or funding; it is a ceremonial acknowledgment.

Procedural and timeline aspects

• Introduced and submitted in the House on April 16, 2026.
• Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.
• Co-sponsors: Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and Rep. Dan Meuser.
• As a concurrent or simple House resolution, it does not become law or authorize funding; it serves as an official expression of Congress recognizing National Mushroom Day and regional contributions.
• No explicit effective date beyond the recognition of National Mushroom Day (June 1) within the resolution text.

Summary interpretation

H.Res. 1184 is a ceremonial measure intended to:
- Officially designate June 1 as National Mushroom Day.
- Honor the economic, historical, and nutritional significance of the mushroom industry in Chester and Berks Counties, Pennsylvania.
- Highlight mushrooms as a healthy, whole-food component of diets and as a symbol of regional agricultural innovation and community.