California lawmakers have announced a new bill designed to provide permanent relief to farmers impacted by natural disasters. The proposed Agriculture Emergency Relief Act aims to streamline the process of seeking and receiving relief, creating a permanent structure within the United States Department of Agriculture’s Emergency Relief Program.
The bill will cover losses from natural disasters, including crops, trees, bushes, and vines. Additionally, the proposed legislation requires farmers to purchase crop insurance for two years following receipt of a payment through the relief program.
This move reflects the growing recognition of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, and the need for robust support structures to mitigate the financial impact on farmers and the agricultural sector as a whole.