The U.S. Senate last night unanimously passed the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which will deliver cash payments to individuals and provide support to industries impacted by the pandemic. The legislation specifically provides USDA with $9.5 billion in funding to help support agricultural producers impacted by coronavirus, including livestock and dairy producers, specialty crop farmers and those that supply local food systems, like farmers markets. In addition, the bill replenishes $14 billion in funding for the Commodity Credit Corporation, which is often used to stabilize, support and protect farm income and prices.
U.S. Sens. Pat Roberts and Jerry Moran provided critical leadership in moving the CARES Act forward and making sure agricultural producers were included in the provision. The legislation now moves to the House, which is expected to vote on it today.
"In these extraordinary times, maintaining continuity in our food supply is critical. KLA applauds Sens. Roberts and Moran for their efforts and commitment to Kansas livestock producers. This legislation will prove beneficial to those who have been greatly impacted as a result of the coronavirus," said KLA Chief Executive Officer Matt Teagarden.
