Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senator Katie Britt has cast her vote in favor of the American Relief Act of 2025, a legislative measure designed to maintain government operations until March 14, 2025, while providing essential support to Alabama's family farmers. The bill includes an extension of the Farm Bill and allocates $30.78 billion for agricultural disaster funding, with $10 billion dedicated to economic disaster relief.

Senator Britt emphasized the urgency of the situation: "With the Farm Bill 447 days overdue, it was truly critical to deliver urgent relief for our agricultural community. Our family farmers are experiencing an existential crisis and need our support so they can continue feeding and clothing our state, nation, and world for generations to come."

She highlighted the financial challenges faced by Alabama's farmers: "The state of Alabama in 2023 experienced the third highest increase in input costs nationwide, and Alabama family farmers this year will lose almost $200 per acre, the fifth most across all 50 states, for a total of about $250 million statewide. The American Relief Act will put relief into the hands of our farmers to help prevent the massive wave of further losses we are facing. I will always proudly fight for our incredible family farmers across Alabama."

Britt also pointed out that keeping the government operational through March 14 would allow the Trump Administration to influence funding decisions for Fiscal Year 2025 when Republicans hold control over both congressional chambers. She stated: "The American people overwhelmingly chose President Trump to get America back on track, and it is vital Congress support him... This will allow us to better reign in wasteful spending while prioritizing the needs of hardworking Americans."

In addition to supporting agriculture, Britt noted that "The American Relief Act will also ensure our brave border patrol agents and servicemembers aren’t worried about missing a paycheck this Christmas season." She expressed hope that Congress would return to regular order to avoid future political stalemates.

The legislation also earmarks $29 billion for the Disaster Relief Fund aimed at aiding recovery efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Furthermore, it provides $10 million for the Delta Regional Authority to assist communities affected by disasters in recent years. Dallas County and Selma, AL are among those eligible for this assistance after experiencing an EF-2 tornado on January 12, 2023.