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Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act
3/29/2025, 2:23 AM
Summary of Bill S 984
Under the proposed legislation, individuals or legal entities that derive a significant portion of their income from agriculture would be eligible for an exception to these payment limitations. This exception would allow them to receive additional financial assistance to support their agricultural operations.
In addition to establishing this exception, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to agricultural income and support. These provisions are intended to promote the economic viability of agricultural producers and ensure that they have access to the resources they need to continue their operations. Overall, Bill 119 s 984 seeks to address the unique financial challenges faced by individuals and legal entities that rely on agriculture for their income. By providing an exception to payment limitations and other forms of support, the legislation aims to promote the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector in the United States.
Congressional Summary of S 984
Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act
This bill waives the adjusted gross income limitations for payments or benefits under specific Department of Agriculture (USDA) disaster assistance programs for a person or legal entity that derives a portion of their income from agriculture. Currently, a person or entity is not eligible to receive certain benefits during a crop, fiscal, or program year if their average gross income exceeds $900,000.
Specifically, in the case of an excepted payment or benefit, the adjusted gross income limitation is waived if 75% or more of the average adjusted gross income for the person or entity is derived from farming, ranching, or silviculture activities. These activities include agritourism, direct-to-consumer marketing of agricultural products, and the sale of agricultural equipment owned by such person or entity.
The bill applies to the USDA
- Livestock Indemnity Program;
- Livestock Forage Disaster Program;
- Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program;
- Tree Assistance Program; and
- Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program.

