USDA announces $150 million in assistance for sugar producers

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KVRR) — Some relief is on the way for sugar producers.

USDA has announced the availability of $150 million of assistance.

Sugar beet and sugar cane farmers across the country are facing market disruptions, increased production costs and tight margins.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins calls the funding a “bridge” to recently improved U.S. sugar program loan rates.

Sen. John Hoeven says it is similar to the Farmer Bridge Assistance program that began in December.

“But we need to do more not only in terms of more assistance in the short-term but actually some changes or improvements to the sugar program that will make sure we keep these great producers in business for the long term,” said Hoeven.

USDA will work with sugar processors to deliver assistance to farmer-members.