Congresswoman McClain Delaney Introduces the FARM SAFE Act to Ensure Disaster Assistance for Producers Remains Uninterrupted During Shutdowns

Congresswoman McClain Delaney Introduces the FARM SAFE Act to Ensure Disaster Assistance for Producers Remains Uninterrupted During Shutdowns

Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (D-MD), Maryland's only voice on the House Agriculture Committee, introduced the Federal Agricultural Relief Maintained during Shutdowns and Federal Emergencies (FARM SAFE) Act, a vital piece of legislation aimed at safeguarding America's producers during government shutdowns and other times of federal uncertainty.

If signed into law, the bill would ensure that essential U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) personnel responsible for administering disaster assistance remain on the job when our agricultural communities need timely support most. The legislation would also shield USDA personnel tasked with providing disaster assistance from mass terminations by the Administration a.k.a. Reductions in Force (RIFs).

This issue is personal for Congresswoman McClain Delaney and Maryland's 6th District. Earlier this year, devastating flash flooding in Western Maryland left many farms heavily damaged. In response, the Congresswoman successfully advocated for additional resources for those impacted though the USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA) Emergency Farm Loan program.

"From floods to droughts and countless other emergencies, disasters have no regard for government shutdowns. That's why I introduced the FARM SAFE Act, to secure uninterrupted USDA disaster assistance for our farmers and rural communities, no matter what's happening in Congress," said Congresswoman McClain Delaney. "Western Maryland is still recovering from historic flooding back in May. I'll never forget the devastation-or the resilience of neighbors helping neighbors to rebuild. We can't let the Majority's political gamesmanship stand in the way of recovery, and we must remain steadfast in protecting our rural communities from all risks - to keep their businesses running and America's families fed."

"Farming and ranching are around the clock jobs, regardless of pandemics or political stalemates. We urge Congress to enact The FARM SAFE Act to ensure that the USDA and FSA maintain the staffing capacity needed to support our farmers in their times of greatest need," said Maryland Farm Bureau President Jamie Raley.

Cosponsors include: Reps. Alma Adams (D-NC), Troy Carter (D-LA), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD), Shomari Figures (D-AL), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), and Raul Ruiz (D-CA).

View the bill text.

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For updates, follow Rep. McClain Delaney at @RepAprilDelaney.

Congresswoman April McClain Delaney was elected in 2024 to serve Maryland's 6th Congressional District, which encompasses all or part of Montgomery, Frederick, Washington, Allegany and Garrett Counties. In Congress, McClain Delaney is focused on improving US competitiveness and innovation, protecting our natural environment and championing policies that represent the values and priorities of Maryland's 6th District.