U.S. Representative Austin Scott has called for urgent disaster relief for farmers affected by Hurricane Helene in an op-ed published in Agri-Pulse. Scott highlighted the extensive damage to Georgia's agriculture sector, estimating losses at over $6.4 billion.
"Hurricane Helene caused a devastating blow to Georgia's number-one industry, with over $6.4 billion in agricultural economic loss alone," Scott stated. He emphasized the need for "agriculture-specific appropriations" to prevent widespread economic decline across rural Southeast America, particularly in Georgia.
Scott described his observations of the devastation during visits to Georgia's Eighth Congressional District, noting damage to poultry houses, cotton fields, pecan orchards, and vegetable crops. He stressed that while Congress cannot prevent hurricanes, it can address the challenges faced by farmers in their aftermath.
Scott was joined by House Agriculture Chairman Glenn "GT" Thompson and Representatives Kat Cammack, Darren Soto, and Doug LaMalfa on a visit to assess the impact of Hurricane Helene on South Georgia and North Florida.
The Congressman also addressed broader issues affecting American farmers since the last Farm Bill was passed in 2018. Rising input costs and policies from the Biden-Harris Administration were cited as contributing factors to current challenges.
Scott advocated for a comprehensive Farm Bill that includes updates to reference prices and expanded crop insurance options. The House Agriculture Committee passed such legislation earlier this year, but progress has stalled in Congress.
"It is my hope that Congress passes both the Farm, Food, and National Security Act and an agriculture-specific disaster relief appropriations package before the end of the year so that our farmers can continue feeding our nation and supporting our rural communities," Scott concluded.
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