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NFU: Farmers and rural communities need more assistance amid covid-19
National Farmers Union is asking Senate leaders to provide support to farmers and rural communities hurt by the coronavirus pandemic in the next relief package.
NFU President Rob Larew says as the number of COVID-19 cases rise it has become clear it’s not a temporary problem and more policy changes and federal investments will be needed.
“Improving market response and trying to help in livestock areas, as well as making sure that commodities that may not have been covered in the first package are covered, and for commodities that have been included, considering if it’s the right amount of response,” he says.
He tells Brownfield NFU is asking legislators to support programs that address short-term and long-term challenges to the industry.
“That not only address the initial impacts of COVID-19, but also have an eye on structural changes we need to see with concentration and making sure we have workable markets,” he says. “We need to look at the underlying problems.”
He says policy changes should not be limited to assistance programs that provide one-time aid to farmers and ranchers.
Larew says NFU is appreciative for the support in the CARES Act and is hopeful for more bipartisan efforts as congressional leaders consider another package to address coronavirus-related challenges.
Audio: Rob Larew
