March 28, 2024

Second CFAP program in works

Perdue says state, federal leaders must partner

ARLINGTON, Va. — State and federal ag officials must work together to coordinate and complement one another, said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue.

Perdue spoke at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s annual meeting, which was held Sept. 1-3.

“That partnership is based on a strong relationship between the states and the federal government,” he said.

“I’m also happy that our key leaders at USDA understand that relationship. We realize the policies and regulations that we do are affecting somebody’s life in agricultural business. That’s what we want to be ever mindful of.

“I believe President Trump understands that partnership well. He also understands the vital importance of agriculture.”

It’s been a challenging few years for those in the agriculture industry, Perdue said.

Those challenges have only intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Like the resilient people they are, our ag producers and ranchers continue on,” Perdue said. “We at USDA have been challenged, but we’ve done a lot of work to try and mitigate those challenges and concerns to help as best we can.

“At the direction of President Trump, we announced a $19 billion program for immediate assistance for America’s farmers and ranchers under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program.”

The first $16 billion was in the form of direct payments to farmers.

A second CFAP program is in the works.

“Through this entire process we’ve tried to listen to our producers, and we’re adding additional commodities to what’s being covered,” Perdue said.

“We’re gearing up to announce round two of CFAP, which will incorporate more feedback to create a program that works best for the people who truly need it.”

Perdue also discussed the Farmers to Families Food Box. President Trump announced an additional $1 billion in funding for the program.

“We’re still working every day to help farmers and ranchers during this pandemic,” Perdue said. “We stand ready to serve you and your members.”