The application procedure for financial aid has officially begun, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), for qualifying farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who were subjected to discrimination in USDA farm loan programmes prior to January 2021.
As directed by Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the USDA is taking action to provide support and redress for these individuals. Collaborating with stakeholders, the agency has worked diligently to develop a program that meets the needs of affected individuals.
Tom Vilsack, the secretary of agriculture, highlights the importance of this achievement by saying, "The opening of the application process is an important step in delivering on our commitment to provide financial assistance to those who faced discrimination in USDA farm lending, as swiftly and efficiently as possible." He assures that USDA will collaborate with national vendor partners and community-based organizations to ensure clear information and guidance on the available assistance, the application process, and where to seek support.
The newly launched program website, 22007apply.gov, serves as a hub of information. Applicants can download or submit the application, available in both English and Spanish, via an e-filing portal. The website provides comprehensive resources, including details about technical assistance available in-person or virtually.
Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who were subjected to discrimination in USDA farm loan programmes before January 1, 2021, and/or who are now carrying USDA farm loan debt as a result of such discrimination, are eligible for the programme. Applicants may use the e-filing platform to submit their applications, or they may bring paper applications in person or by mail to the regional programme offices. From July 7 through October 31, 2023, the application process will be open.
The sequence of submission will not be taken into consideration when reviewing applications. All applications that are received or postmarked before the deadline of October 31 will be taken into account.
To facilitate the application process, USDA is working closely with experienced organizations that have a history of outreach to farm communities. These organizations, including AgrAbility, Farmer Veteran Coalition, Farmers' Legal Action Group, and others, will provide support and guidance to eligible individuals. Regional hubs operated by vendors, such as Windsor Group and Analytic Acquisitions, will offer technical assistance and collaborate with community-based organizations to conduct extensive outreach.
USDA remains committed to ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of the program. The national administrator for the programme, running a national phone centre, and overseeing the application website is Midtown Group. To safeguard applicants against misinformation and scams, USDA emphasizes that the official application process is free, and no attorney’s fees will be paid by USDA or any other agency.
Source : wisconsinagconnection