President Trump Signs Off on $8 Billion in Relief for Montana Farmers

It's no secret that rising costs are affecting many across the U.S. in multiple ways. For farmers here in Montana, market disruptions have made things especially difficult.

Well, there could be some relief on the way according to the Trump administration.

$8 Billion Harvest Fuel Relief Program

In an announcement on Tuesday, October 20th, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke L. Rollins said American farmers will be able to receive a one-time payment from an $8 billion fund to help offset rising costs and market disruptions.

"President Trump is the most pro-farmer president of my lifetime and he is continuing to put Farmers First every day,” Rollins said in a statement.

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"Today, I am proud to announce alongside President Trump more targeted relief is coming to our farmers through the Harvest Fuel Relief program. This $8 billion dollar investment will help bring certainty to our farmers during this harvest so they can continue to feed our nation."

How Will Payments Work?

Those hoping to get some money will obviously have to take some specific steps in order to get their payment.

First, the USDA says "commodity-specific payment rates for Title I commodities will be released in November" and that payment methods for "other eligible commodities will be announced at a later date."

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"Producers of non-Title I commodities, including specialty crop growers and fishermen, are encouraged to provide data related to increased fuel costs to HarvestFuel@usda.gov for USDA’s consideration when determining payment rates," the USDA says.

"Eligible producers are encouraged to create a Login.gov account in advance of the application period announcement. Pre-filled applications will be available online to producers with a Login.gov account linked to USDA."

How Do Montana Farmers Feel About This?

I want to hear from the people that are directly impacted by this and want to know: will this help? Is this a good solution for the long or short term? Let me know your thoughts HERE.

Learn more about the relief program HERE.