Sponsors (2)
The bill directs federal grants to trusted local organizations to provide emergency cash and build capacity for farmworker relief—improving disaster support for a vulnerable workforce—but increases federal spending and may exclude smaller community groups or be constrained by federal disaster determinations.
Farmworkers (especially low-income and seasonal agricultural workers) receive emergency cash and supportive services during covered disasters through grants to trusted local organizations.
Local farmworker organizations and rural communities get funding for training, planning, and infrastructure to strengthen capacity and resiliency so they can deliver assistance more effectively in emergencies.
Eligible organizations benefit from grant funds that remain available until expended, allowing continuity of assistance and multi-year program delivery rather than one-year interruptions.
Taxpayers may face increased federal spending to fund ongoing emergency grants and program operations each fiscal year.
Smaller or newer community groups and informal local networks that lack 501(c)(3) status or documented experience may be excluded from receiving grants, which could leave some farmworkers underserved.
Aid availability could be delayed or limited because grant awards depend on the Secretary's determination of a "covered disaster," creating a single federal trigger that may slow response.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Creates a USDA-run emergency grant program that funds eligible farmworker organizations for relief, cash assistance, infrastructure, and resiliency when a covered disaster is declared.
Introduced May 7, 2025 by Michael F. Bennet · Last progress May 7, 2025
Creates a standing USDA emergency grant program that gives money to farmworker membership groups and eligible nonprofits when the Secretary of Agriculture determines a covered disaster exists. Grants can pay for direct cash assistance, emergency services, shelter and infrastructure, capacity building, and community resiliency efforts. The program starts in FY2024 and continues each fiscal year; the Secretary must promote the program, consult with eligible organizations, and make funds available until spent. Eligible organizations include farmworker membership organizations and 501(c)(3) nonprofits with experience serving farmworkers.