USDA pays final $306M to farmers hit by 2020-2021 disasters

Feb 07, 2024

By Farms.com

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced final Emergency Relief Program (ERP) payments totaling $306 million to eligible farmers impacted by natural disasters in 2020 and 2021. These payments are intended to help offset financial losses incurred by these producers and their operations.

Highlights:

Additional payments: This disbursement adds to the initial $7.5 billion distributed through ERP Phase One in 2022.
Eligible recipients: Farmers who received ERP Phase One payments based on crop insurance indemnities are eligible for an additional 3.5% payout, increasing their overall payment factor to 78.5%.
Non-insured crops: Producers who received payments for non-insured crops through the NAP program will not receive further assistance for 2020-2021 losses.
Separate program: A distinct ERP program (ERP 2022) is currently accepting applications for losses related to 2022 natural disasters.

Background:

The $10 billion ERP program was established by the Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act of 2021.
The Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2023 provided additional funding for ERP 2022.

USDA broader efforts:

The Biden-Harris administration is committed to supporting farmers and strengthening the food system.
Initiatives include promoting local food production, ensuring fair markets, expanding access to healthy food, and investing in rural infrastructure and clean energy.

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