Press Releases

WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released details today on a $16 billion package to support farmers and ranchers affected by trade disruptions. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released a statement on the package first announced by the USDA in May.

"While today’s package is welcome news for many farmers and ranchers in the Fourth District who have been impacted by tariffs and recent trade negotiations, the fact remains that free and fair trade is the best solution to support Kansas’ agriculture industry," said Rep. Estes. "I applaud the Trump administration and USDA for working to correct some of the current hardships for our farmers and ranchers through this program, but will continue urging passage of the USMCA and other trade deals so that Kansans can have full access to free, fair and open markets."

In May, the USDA announced the authorization of $16 billion in aid programs through the Market Facilitation Program (MFP), Food Purchase and Distribution Program (FPDP) and Agricultural Trade Promotion Program (ATP). Today, the USDA announced that MFP signup at local Farm Service Agency offices will run from Monday, July 29, through Friday, Dec. 6, 2019. Details on MFP, FPDP and ATP programs can be found here.

Rep. Estes serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, which oversees trade, and is a fierce advocate for free and fair trade. As a member of the Republican Whip team to ensure passage of the USMCA in the House, he knows how important trade is for Kansas producers and manufacturers and is working with the Administration to resolve trade conflicts in a manner that benefits Kansans in the long term.

Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.