It’s National Weights and Measures Week, celebrated annually from March 1-7. Regulatory officials across the country and our state’s agricultural commissioners and sealers join CDFA’s Division of Measurement Standards (DMS) in commemorating the signing of the first United States weights and measures law by President John Adams on March 2, 1799.
This year’s theme, “Building a Lasting Legacy,” demonstrates the necessity of weights and measures programs for commerce in California and the nation. The programs also help achieve equity in the marketplace. For agriculture, it means that farmers, ranchers and consumers will receive an accurate measurement of crops, commodities and other products being sold and purchased. Our work also ensures that every price unit is accurate across the supply chain.
Enforcement of weights and measures laws and regulations is carried out by CDFA’s Division of Measurement Standards, which works closely with county sealers of weights and measures to ensure fair competition for industry, and accurate value for consumers.
Devices inspected and verified by these professionals include meters that measure fuel and petroleum; electric vehicle charging stations; and virtually all types and capacities of scales, from the supermarket checkout stand to commercial truck scales. Many inspectors also check the accuracy of pricing in retail stores.
Weights and Measures Week celebrates the inspectors, laboratory technicians, and other experts and support staff all together working to ensure a level playing field in commerce.
Learn more about CDFA’s Division of Measurement Standards.