Between low prices and talks of trade issues, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins has promised to make farmers whole in the coming year, but she could take a unique approach to make it happen.
Sources tell AgriPulse that Rollins could use Section 32 under the Commodity Credit Corporation, which allows the Department to purchase extra commodities for feeding programs. However, it is written to also reestablish farmers’ purchasing power by making payments.
During the first Trump Administration, USDA used Section 5 authority. However, there is little money left unless Congress refills the account.
Related Stories
These “USDA Foods” are provided to USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) nutrition assistance programs, including food banks that operate The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and are a vital component of the nation’s food safety net.
Lower U.S. and Mexican production means tighter sugar supplies and greater reliance on imports headed into 2026.
Screwworm.gov has targeted resources for a wide range of stakeholders, including livestock producers, veterinarians, animal health officials, wildlife professionals, healthcare providers, pet owners, researchers, drug manufacturers, and the general public.
Supplemental Disaster Relief Program Stage Two will disburse around $16 billion, approved by Congress last year. Sign-ups begin Monday, and producers have until April to return applications.
Early Cattle-on-Feed estimates point to slightly tighter cattle supplies, reinforcing the need to monitor prices and timing for winter marketing.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the USDA’s Stage Two Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, including application details, deadlines, and guidance for rural producers.
