Politisphere

S. 984: Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act

A Senate bill (S.) in the 119th U.S. Congress.

Overview

Congress119th U.S. Congress (2025–2026)
TypeSenate bill (S.)
Originating chamberSenate
Introduced2025-03-12
SponsorSen. Padilla, Alex [D-CA]
Policy areaAgriculture and Food
Cosponsors1
Latest action2025-03-12 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. (Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S1706)
Last updated2025-05-14

Summary

Official summary (Introduced in Senate, 2025-03-12):

Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act

This bill waives the adjusted gross income limitations for payments or benefits under specific Department of Agriculture (USDA) disaster assistance programs for a person or legal entity that derives a portion of their income from agriculture. Currently, a person or entity is not eligible to receive certain benefits during a crop, fiscal, or program year if their average gross income exceeds $900,000.

Specifically, in the case of an excepted payment or benefit, the adjusted gross income limitation is waived if 75% or more of the average adjusted gross income for the person or entity is derived from farming, ranching, or silviculture activities. These activities include agritourism, direct-to-consumer marketing of agricultural products, and the sale of agricultural equipment owned by such person or entity.

The bill applies to the USDA

  • Livestock Indemnity Program;
  • Livestock Forage Disaster Program;
  • Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program;
  • Tree Assistance Program; and
  • Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program.

Cosponsors (1)

NameParty / state
Thom Tillis R NC (original cosponsor) 2025-03-12

Full text & official record

The official bill text, section-by-section summary, amendments, committee reports, and the complete legislative timeline for S. 984 are published by Congress on congress.gov.

View S. 984 on congress.gov →

Frequently asked questions

What is S. 984?

S. 984 is a Senate bill (S.) introduced in the 119th U.S. Congress, originating in the Senate. Official title: Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act.

Where can I read the full bill text?

The full text, cosponsors, amendments, and legislative status for S. 984 are available on congress.gov.

Bill data: congress.gov API (official congressional records).