Enhanced Disaster Aid for Farmers and Ranchers Amid Droughts
This act aims to improve disaster assistance programs for farmers and ranchers affected by natural disasters, especially droughts. It introduces new eligibility rules, including for those leasing federal or state lands, and streamlines the application process for aid. These changes are designed to facilitate recovery from losses and provide faster financial support.
Key points
Expanded eligibility for disaster assistance to include agricultural producers leasing federal, state, or local government lands.
Allows funding for permanent solutions like water wells and pipelines under emergency conservation programs.
Streamlines the application process during drought emergencies by waiving public comment periods and accepting existing environmental reviews.
Reduces the required drought duration for livestock forage disaster program eligibility from 8 to 4 consecutive weeks, enabling quicker aid.
Establishes an interagency working group to improve data for the U.S. Drought Monitor, aiming for more accurate and timely responses.
Requires alignment of drought response activities between the Farm Service Agency and Forest Service for consistent support.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_904
Sponsor: Sen. Thune, John [R-SD]
Process start date: 2025-03-06