Notice to Hispanic and/or Women Farmers or Ranchers
7/1/2011
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If you believe that the United States Department of Agriculture
(USDA) improperly denied farm loan benefits to you between 1981
and 2000 because you are Hispanic, or because you are female, you
may be eligible to apply for compensation.The United States Government has established a claims process to
make available $1.33 billion or more to farmers who alleged
discrimination by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) based on
being female, or based on being Hispanic, in making or servicing
farm loans during certain periods between 1981 and 2000. “The Obama Administration has made it a priority to resolve all
claims of past discrimination at USDA, and we are committed to
closing this sad chapter in USDA’s history,” said Agriculture
Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers who
allege past discrimination can now come forward to participate in a
claims process in which they have the opportunity to receive
compensation.” The 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. This
announcement follows the Obama Administration’s settlement of
longstanding litigation brought by African American farmers and
Native American farmers. The program 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. Hispanic or female
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 opt not to participate are not
precluded by the program from filing a complaint in court.
How to File a Claim: Individuals interested in
participating in the claims process may register to receive a claims
package, or may obtain more information, by visiting
www.farmerclaims.gov
(
https://farmerclaims.gov/FarmerClaims/farmer.do ) or by calling the
Farmer and Rancher Call Center at 1-888-508-4429. USDA
cannot provide legal advice to potential claimants. Persons seeking
legal advice may contact a lawyer or other legal services provider. |
