Statewide Iowa (RI) – Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says the $12 billion farmer bailout program President Trump announced is much needed and he predicts a great many farmers in Iowa will qualify for it.
Grassley says this is quite similar to the help the president offered farmers in 2020 when trade trouble with China impacted US agricultural markets. Grassley keeps a very close eye on the daily movements of commodity markets.
Grassley’s son, Robin, raises corn, soybeans, and livestock on the family farmstead in New Hartford. The Republican says they had a good crop in Butler County this season, but input costs were up 25%, so they’re in the same financial boat as most other farmers.
Grassley says the program is for farmers who are facing severe losses due to high input costs, falling commodity prices, and international trade troubles.
The Farmer Bridge Assistance Program will make payments available to farmers who raise 20 different crops, including corn and soybeans, with the checks expected in late February. Applications need to be in to USDA by December 19th.
KIWA Staff Photo
