Five senators and two representatives introduced legislation this week that would reauthorize and expand the Outreach to Socially Disadvantaged and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program, the USDA’s only program tailored specifically toward minority and veteran producers. The bill is supported by more than 100 farm, land, and justice organizations.
The Assist Socially Disadvantaged and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Act of 2018 would renew funding for the program through 2023, require public reports on the program’s work, and require the Secretary of Agriculture to compile reports on the demographics of those participating in USDA programs. For decades, many minority farmers, particularly African Americans, women, and Native Americans, have alleged that discriminatory practices by USDA staff kept them from accessing crucial agency programs.
“Due to a long history of systemic discrimination, many farmers have not been able to take advantage of important government services and support,” said Alicia LaPorte, campaign manager for Fair Farms Maryland, one of the groups that backs the bill, in a press release. “Now Senators Van Hollen and Smith have proposed a bill that bolsters and improves a crucial program that aims to level the playing field for these farmers.”
In the Senate, the bill is co-sponsored by five Democrats: Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, Tina Smith of Minnesota, Doug Jones of Alabama, and Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich, both of New Mexico. The House version is co-sponsored by Reps. Michelle Lujan Grisham and Ben Ray Lujan, both New Mexico Democrats.