Peach Tree Times

Senator Russ Goodman, representing the 8th Senate District in Georgia and serving as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, has made a formal request to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The senator is urging USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to reconsider the coverage area for the Hurricane Indemnity Program following Hurricane Helene. In his communication, Sen. Goodman highlighted an estimated $6.4 billion in damage to Georgia's agricultural sector, with crop losses expected to exceed $3 billion.

The current USDA Risk Management Agency's coverage does not include several counties significantly affected by the hurricane: Bulloch, Burke, Candler, Effingham, Evans, Jenkins, Lincoln, Long, Pierce, Richmond, Screven, Tattnall, and Wayne. This exclusion could leave many farmers without essential resources needed for recovery. The letter sent by Sen. Goodman was co-signed by other legislators who support a comprehensive analysis of the hurricane's impact using data from credible sources like NOAA and IBTrACS.

"Seeing almost every Senator in our state come together on this issue speaks volumes about the gravity of the situation our farming families are facing," said Sen. Goodman. "These farmers did their part by investing in Hurricane Indemnity policies. Now they deserve to see the USDA step up to the plate." He further emphasized that action from Secretary Vilsack is crucial for farmers' financial recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Senator Goodman's correspondence also pointed out difficulties caused by Hurricane Helene at the National Center for Environmental Information but stressed that these challenges should not obstruct damage assessments in affected areas.

For more information or inquiries about Senator Russ Goodman’s activities or statements regarding this matter, he can be reached at 404-656-7454 or russ.goodman@senate.ga.gov.