An interim rule has been published permitting USDA to launch its Trade Adjustment Assistance program. In making the announcement, Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack said this program will create new opportunities for producers hurt by import competition. Eligible producers will receive much-needed technical assistance and cash benefits to help them adjust to the current economic environment. The assistance includes help in developing business adjustment plans that can serve as a guide for adjusting a producer's business operation to prevailing economic conditions.
Re-authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the program applies to producers of raw agricultural commodities and fishermen who due to an increase in imports show a greater than 15% decrease in the national average price; the quantity of production; the value of production; or in cash receipts compared to the average of the three preceding marketing years.
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