Expresses Shock And Disappointment That, Contrary To Congressional Intent, The SBA Singles Out Farmers And Agricultural Businesses As Ineligible For This Program
MIAMI – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (FL-26) joined her colleagues in a bipartisan push to ensure Small Business Administration (SBA) loan eligibility for farmers.
This letter is in direct response to the SBA maintaining that farms and agricultural businesses are ineligible for Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) programs.
“Our state’s farmers supply much of the winter and spring produce to our nation and grow some of the best tomatoes, green beans, lettuce, cabbage, and so much more. Yet, they are being left to fend for themselves during this economic and health crisis,” said Mucarsel-Powell. “The unanticipated closure of farmer’s markets, the downturn in cruise travel, and the scaling back of hours or complete closure of restaurants has placed a tremendous strain on the incomes and livelihoods of local growers and agricultural producers. I demand that the SBA follow the intent of our legislation and include farmers and agricultural businesses in this emergency aid program that will help our state’s agricultural sector survive.”
“We were shocked and disappointed that, contrary to Congressional intent, the Small Business Administration singles out farmers and agricultural businesses as ineligible for this program. We ask that you share the Small Business Administration (SBA)’s rationale for excluding farms from this program, including any statutory limitations on aiding farmers,” said the members. “We urge you to ensure that agricultural businesses and farmers are eligible to access the EIDL program, and the other small business provisions in the CARES act.”
On March 27, 2020, Mucarsel-Powell also lead a bipartisan Florida delegation letter urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to use its purchasing authority to procure local fruit and vegetables for federal nutrition programs in Florida and across the country from local farmers.
Click here for a full Text of the letter regarding SBA loans.
