Helping America's Farmers Act
This bill directs the Farm Service Agency (FSA) of the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to carry out a program to provide economic disaster loans to certain agricultural entities with an adjusted gross income of less than or equal to $500,000.
Under the program, such entities are eligible for loans of up to $2 million and may seek loan forgiveness based on demonstrated economic hardship. In making loans, priority must be given to (1) entities located in states most impacted by an economic disaster; and (2) minority, veteran, and women farmers and ranchers.
The FSA may guarantee a loan to certain agricultural entities with an adjusted gross income of greater than $500,000 if such loan meets certain requirements.
Entities that apply for a loan or loan guarantee may request that the FSA provide an emergency grant of at least $20,000 upon application.
The bill provides funding for USDA to carry out a training program to provide FSA staff with appropriate training relating to economic injury loan processing and servicing.