Senator Loeffler Applauds Administration’s Swift Support for Farmers Amid COVID-19

New Measures Will Provide Much-Needed Relief to Agriculture Community

ATLANTA, GA – U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler (R-Ga.), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, today applauded President Donald Trump and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue for providing swift support to farmers amid the COVID-19 emergency.
 
“Our farmers feed, clothe and fuel the world, and the COVID-19 pandemic has caused serious damage to farms, agribusinesses and the rural economy in Georgia and nationwide,” said Senator Loeffler. “Farmers across the country have stepped up to ensure our food chain is maintained and families have the food they need. I applaud President Trump and USDA Secretary Perdue for listening to the needs of the agriculture community and providing them with much-needed relief during this crisis. This critical aid will go a long way in addressing their needs and recovery.”
 
The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program will distribute $19 billion to support farmers, ranchers and consumers. Direct payments totaling $16 billion will assist producers of fruits, vegetables, beef, pork, dairy, row crops, produce and others whose markets have been disrupted or lost due to the COVID-19 emergency. USDA will use $3 billion to purchase and distribute excess produce, dairy and meat directly to local and regional food banks and non-profit organizations.
 
On Wednesday, April 15, Loeffler sent a letter to Secretary Perdue urging him to support Georgia specialty crop farmers who have been hurt by COVID-19. Loeffler also joined letters asking USDA to ensure timely economic relief for cotton farmers, blueberry farmers and cattle producers.