Roberts’ Priorities Included in Senate-Passed Omnibus Legislation

Retiring Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts says the omnibus appropriations and COVID-19 bills reflect his priorities. Speaking of the two pieces of legislation, the Kansas Republican says, “I’m proud to cast one of my final votes in the Senate on behalf of America’s farmers, ranchers, and growers.” The legislation includes approximately $26 billion for pandemic-related agriculture and nutrition programs. Provisions in the legislation Roberts advocated for include the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility Act of 2019, directing the facility to carry out parts of the National Biodefense Strategy. The legislation also includes the Securing All Livestock Equitably Act of 2020, which establishes a livestock dealer trust to benefit unpaid sellers of livestock. Additionally, the legislation includes funds for meat processors to upgrade plants for interstate shipment of products, the Paycheck Protection Program expenses deducibility, and simplifies the loan forgiveness process for PPP loans up to $150,000. The legislation also provides $11.19 billion for pandemic-related assistance to support agricultural producers.