# USDA Weekly Update Podcast Script

Welcome to this week's USDA Update. I'm your host, bringing you the latest from the Department of Agriculture.

Our top story: Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has announced that USDA will open applications for nearly $21 billion in natural disaster aid before the end of May. During testimony before a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee, Secretary Rollins confirmed this crucial timeline for farmers affected by natural disasters over the past two years.

"We will announce applications for disaster aid in the coming weeks, by the end of May," Rollins stated during the hearing on Tuesday. The aid package, passed quickly after Hurricane Helene last fall, covers various natural disasters from 2023 and 2024, with $2 billion specifically designated for livestock producers.

In organizational news, Secretary Rollins revealed that the USDA's comprehensive reorganization plan will be released next week. Approximately 15,000 USDA employees have accepted early retirement or buyouts under the Deferred Resignation Program, though Rollins emphasized this aligns with normal attrition rates.

"USDA has around 106,000 employees in total. Every year, we lose just by attrition between 8,000 to 10,000 of those employees," Rollins explained, adding, "I think the President has a very bold vision of returning the power to the people of downsizing the government. And I think we're doing that in a very intentional and very smart way."

The USDA has also announced May 2025 lending rates for agricultural producers, with Farm Operating Loans at 5.125% and Farm Ownership Loans at 5.625%. These favorable rates aim to help eligible producers access vital capital for operations, equipment, and cash flow needs.

Meanwhile, concerns are mounting about changes to USDA farm loan processes. Senator Amy Klobuchar and colleagues have raised issues regarding the new procedures, which could affect many agricultural producers.

Progress continues on the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, with Secretary Rollins reporting that nearly $8 billion has been distributed since late March, reaching more than 472,000 farmers.

For farmers and producers seeking information about disaster aid applications or loan programs, visit your local USDA Service Center or use online tools like the Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov.

That's all for this week's update. We'll be watching closely for the reorganization plan and disaster aid application details in the coming days. I'm your host, signing off until next week.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI