New Diesel Aid Could Push Farm Payments to Record High

The projected $55.4 billion would surpass the previous government payment record set in 2020.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — Government payments to farmers could reach a record high this year with the addition of new diesel assistance.

According to Progressive Farmer, USDA’s new Harvest Fuel Relief Program could bring total farm payments to a record $55.4 billion this year if the estimated $8 billion in diesel aid is distributed before the end of the year.

That would surpass the previous record set in 2020, with government payments accounting for nearly one-third of projected net farm income.

Farm groups say the additional assistance is needed, while critics are questioning the increase in government payments.

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Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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