Pandemic Assistance for Producers announced

More help is on the way for farmers after USDA this week announced over $12 billion for the Pandemic Assistance for Producers.

This aid will help those farmers and ranchers who did not qualify previously for COVID-19 assistance and will expand help to producers who have already received assistance. Those who previously submitted CFAP applications should not have to apply again and the new program sign-up starts April 5.

The funds had been on hold along with newly allocated funds in the Consolidated Appropriations Act. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack shared details of the new plan during a virtual meeting with American Farm Bureau leaders and state Farm Bureau presidents.

AFBF President Zippy Duvall said he appreciates Vilsack’s action to release funding and expand eligibility for producers hard hit by the devastating impact of COVID-19. Duvall went on to say the decision to distribute aid based on previous applications will help deliver assistance quickly.