Connecticut Congressional Delegation Applauds Biden Administration for Heeding Calls for Ag Disaster Assistance

Washington, D.C. - Today, Members of the Connecticut Congressional Delegation applauded the Biden-Harris administration for requestinga robust disaster assistance spending package that will meet the needs of Connecticut's farmers and producers. The spending request comes after the Delegation urgedadministration officials last week to provide emergency relief for farmers recovering from severe natural disasters.

In total, the White House requested roughly $100 billion to rebuild after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and severe storms nationwide, including those in Connecticut.

"Local growers in the Connecticut River Valley and across the state have still not been made whole after last year's severe flooding and frost cut the growing season short and put people out of work," said Larson. "Last week, Rep. Courtney and I led 38 lawmakers, including the entire Connecticut delegation, urging Congressional leadership to support direct relief for our farmers. I am thrilled by today's news that President Biden is prioritizing aid to farmers in his request for emergency disaster relief. Congress must act swiftly to pass broad disaster relief before we adjourn for the year that ensures all New England farms impacted by these disasters can access the relief they need and deserve to make up for their losses over the past two years."

"Great news. The Biden administration heeded our calls and sent a robust request to Congress that will help our farmers recover from natural disasters. Many farms in Connecticut have felt the devastating consequences of these weather events. My colleagues and I in the Connecticut delegation have been leading the push for this aid, and now we will work to ensure this package gets across the finish line," saidCourtney.

"I am proud that President Biden's administration is heeding our delegation's call for emergency relief for farmers in their newly announced supplemental aid request. I have visited many farms and spoken with devastated farmers and their families after droughts, floods and windstorms. Crucially, in 5 years we've lost 460 farms in Connecticut because of natural disasters and adverse markets. The additional funding requested will ensure that our farmers are being supported and our farms are being preserved. Connecticut's small farmers deserve a strong safety net," said Blumenthal.

"Farmers in Connecticut need relief now, and I'm glad the White House understands the urgency of this moment. Our delegation has pushed tirelessly for this funding, and we are committed to doing everything possible to get it across the finish line," said Murphy.

"I'm grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration for requesting additional emergency disaster funding. The Connecticut delegation will continue to work with Congressional leadership to quickly secure the full amount requested and deliver it directly to the people who need it most," said Himes.

"I am glad the Biden Administration has listened to our calls to provide assistance to farmers affected by natural disasters. I have been fighting to ensure small and medium sized farmers are prioritized in relief, and that we eliminate barriers for those most in need," said DeLauro.

"I've called for emergency disaster funding for our farmers and producers in dire need of relief," said Hayes. "The Biden-Harris Administration has echoed these calls and is asking for $24 billion to help thousands recoup losses after extreme weather events. I am grateful the administration is prioritizing the needs of constituents like mine, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure emergency aid reaches those in need."

As extreme weather events continue to increase in severity and frequency, Connecticut's Congressional Delegation has been pushing year after year for more aid to help farmers recoup losses. In 2022, Members successfully secured disaster assistance and requested additional aid in 2023.