(a) The commission shall establish the assessment for the marketing season not later than March 1 of each year or as soon thereafter as is possible. The assessment shall not exceed twenty cents ($0.20) per 100 pounds, or the equivalent, for tomatoes delivered to handlers by producers. Of the assessment, not more than ten cents ($0.10) per 100 pounds prepared for market, or the equivalent, shall be assessed against producers, and not more than ten cents ($0.10) per 100 pounds shall be assessed against handlers.
(b) An assessment greater than the amount provided for in this section may not be charged unless and until a greater fee is approved by a majority of the commission and by eligible producers and handlers pursuant to procedures specified in Section 78691.