Ag Officials Probe Discrimination Claims
July 25, 2011 USDA’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Fred Pfaeffle held a series of outreach meetings recently with farmers and ranchers around the Sunshine State. Pfaeffle took questions and talked about the process that has been put in place to resolve the claims of Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers in Florida who assert that they were discriminated against when seeking USDA farm loans. In a week’s time, Pfaeffle held outreach and constituency meetings in Miami, West Palm Beach, Gainesville, Ocala, and Marianna.
“Our goal is to ensure that any Hispanic or women farmer or rancher who alleges discrimination is aware of this option to come forward, to have his or her claims heard and to participate in a process to receive compensation,” said Pfaeffle.
The program USDA announced earlier this year with the Department of Justice provides up to $50,000 for each Hispanic or woman farmer who can show that USDA denied them a loan or loan servicing for discriminatory reasons for certain time periods between 1981 and 2000. This claims process offers a streamlined alternative to litigation and provides at least $1.33 billion in compensation, plus up to $160 million in farm debt relief to eligible Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers. Hispanic or women farmers who provide additional proof and meet other requirements can receive a $50,000 reward. Successful claimants are also eligible for funds to pay the taxes on their awards and for forgiveness of certain existing USDA loans. There are no filing fees or other costs to claimants to participate in the program. Participation is voluntary, and individuals who decide not to participate may choose to file a complaint in court. However, USDA cannot provide legal advice to potential claimants, and persons seeking legal advice may contact a lawyer or other legal services provider.
The outreach is part of a series of meetings that are being held across the country to let Hispanic and women farmers or ranchers know about this process. Potential claimants who were unable to attend the events can register to receive a claims package by clicking here.
Source: USDA news release
