Land Grants, Debt Relief, and Civil Rights for Black Farmers
This Act introduces sweeping changes aimed at rectifying historical discrimination against Black farmers, offering them direct land and financial support. Eligible citizens can receive no-cost grants of agricultural land (up to 160 acres) and access to zero-interest operating loans to start farming. Furthermore, the law forgives debts for Black farmers involved in historical court settlements and strengthens legal protections for all farmers against unfair practices by large processing companies.
Key points
No-Cost Land Grants: Establishes a program to convey up to 160 acres of agricultural land to eligible Black individuals, aiming for at least 20,000 grants annually for 10 years.
Debt Forgiveness: Immediate forgiveness of USDA loan indebtedness for Black farmers who filed claims under the historical Pigford I settlement, plus a grant equal to 30% of the forgiven debt.
Anti-Discrimination Protection: Creates an independent oversight board and a Civil Rights Ombudsman within the USDA, and imposes a foreclosure moratorium while a discrimination complaint is pending.
Meat Market Reform: Requires large meatpackers to purchase at least 50% of livestock through spot market sales, intended to increase competition and ensure fair pricing for independent ranchers.
Expired
Citizen Poll