Marshall Encourages USDA to Issue Cares Act Provisions

Statement

On April 1, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D. joined with colleagues from the House and Senate to encourage U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to provide immediate assistance to cattle owners by using the resources provided to the USDA through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Stabilization (CARES) Act. Today, Rep. Marshall repeated his plea to Secretary Perdue to deliver certainty and assistance to ranchers.

"Livestock owners are suffering through some of the worst market conditions in recent memory," said Rep. Marshall. "The COVID-19 outbreak has further depressed live cattle prices to the point many are risking bankruptcy if aid doesn't arrive soon. This pandemic has reinforced just how valuable maintaining a domestic food supply is, which is why it is vital we give our cattle owners the assistance they need to remain in business. We must do what we can to lessen the impact of this pandemic and allow our livestock owners to remain in business and keep our nation fed."

The CARES Act appropriated $14 billion to replenish the Commodity Credit Corporation and an additional $9.5 billion for the USDA to assist farmers and ranchers in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the start of the coronavirus outbreak, live cattle prices have dropped approximately 25 percent. As of Monday, the USDA had not yet issued guidance on how the funds will be allocated to ranchers.

"Secretary Perdue and the USDA helped our farmers weather the market uncertainties caused by market disruptions and unfair trade practices," said Rep. Marshall. "I know Secretary Perdue understands the tough market conditions our livestock owners are enduring and I look forward to him releasing the details as soon as possible to reassure our producers that the USDA is continuing to stand behind them."

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