(1) The marketing of seed potatoes within this state is in the public interest. It is vital to the continued economic well-being of the citizens of this state and their general welfare that its seed potatoes be properly promoted by:

(a) Enabling producers of seed potatoes to help themselves in establishing orderly, fair, sound, efficient, and unhampered marketing, grading, and standardizing of the seed potatoes they produce; and

(b) Working towards stabilizing the agricultural industry by increasing consumption of seed potatoes within the state, the nation, and internationally.

(2) That it is in the overriding public interest that support for the seed potato industry be clearly expressed, that adequate protection be given to the industry and its activities and operations, and that the seed potatoes be promoted individually, and as part of a comprehensive agriculture industry to:

(a) Enhance the reputation and image of Washington state's seed potatoes.

(b) Increase the sale and use of Washington state's seed potatoes in local, domestic, and foreign markets.

(c) Protect the public by educating the public in reference to the quality, care, and methods used in the production of Washington state's seed potatoes.

(d) Increase the public's knowledge of the qualities and value of Washington state's seed potatoes.

(e) Support and engage in programs or activities that benefit the planting, production, harvesting, handling, processing, marketing, and uses of seed potatoes produced in Washington state.

(3) The director is authorized to implement, administer, and enforce chapter 15.66 RCW through this marketing order.

(4) The Washington state seed potato commission exists primarily for the benefit of the people of the state of Washington and its economy, and with oversight by the director, the commission is authorized to speak on behalf of Washington state government with regard to seed potatoes under the provisions of this marketing order.