Steube Joins Colleagues in Calls for USDA to Expand CFAP Coverage for Cattle Farmers
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) joined colleagues in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue urging them to allow producers who sold cattle after April 15, 2020, be eligible for sales payment through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP).
“My district is home to some of the largest cattle ranches in the nation, and they have been suffering from price declines since mid-March,” Steube said. “With prices still not recovering, the USDA should expand the cut-off for CFAP coverage to promote the agricultural industry and protect our farmers.”
The CFAP provides over $16 billion in direct relief for eligible farmers and ranchers who have suffered losses due to COVID-19. Eligible producers of non-specialty crops, wool, livestock, dairy, or specialty crops that suffered a five percent or more price decline as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this does not cover cattle marketed past April 15, 2020.
Through the CFAP, the USDA will also partner with regional and local distributors to purchase over $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy, and meat at a rate of $300 million per month. The purchased food will go directly to food banks, community and faith-based organizations, and other non-profits.
You can read the full text of the letter here.
