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Ernst seeks streamlined disaster recovery support for farmers

U.S. Senator Joni Ernst says disaster assistance needs to be more easily accessible in rural and agricultural areas.

The Iowa Republican tells Brownfield many farmers impacted by natural disasters this year have been challenged by the complexity of USDA and SBA disaster programs.

“It is very confusing when you’re not sure what program is going to work best for your particular ag operation,” Ernst said. “Sometimes owners will be allowed to participate in various (SBA) programs and there are other cases where people are not.”

Ernst, who is the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, says the Small Business Administration has gaps in coverage that have forced private sector and state governments to help provide assistance to farmers.

“We are trying to sort through all of that and make sure it’s streamlined to bring clarity to programs and make them equal. The loan terms, let’s make them equal.”

Testifying during a recent Senate committee hearing, Iowa Deputy Ag Secretary Grant Menke said SBA loans currently offer lower interest rates compared to USDA disaster loans.

INTERVIEW: U.S. Senator Joni Ernst 9-19-2024

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