Cramer: USDA Makes $185 Million Available To Farmers For Loan Shortfall

Press Release

Congressman Kevin Cramer announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has made available an additional $185 million to help fund operating loans for the nation's farmers, including many in North Dakota.

"With agriculture still serving as the lifeblood of our economy, the low commodity prices are certainly being felt by everyone," said Cramer. "With the existing program funds completely obligated through the rest of the fiscal year, the extra money now made available will provide a much needed shot in the arm."

He said augmenting existing funding now for these loan programs is one of the biggest issues for agriculture policy makers. "I have spoken with Chairman Conaway on many occasions about this and other issues our producers are facing throughout this current downturn," he said. "I will work with him and my Senate colleagues to achieve longer term solutions."

According to the USDA, the additional money now made available will fund approximately 30 percent of the nearly 2,000 pending farm operating loan applications.

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