Policy Radar

This story appeared in the DBA September newsletter. Click here to view the digital version of the newsletter.

Wisconsin Farm Support Program: The state Department of Revenue and Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection concluded the second round of Wisconsin Farm Support Program payments through the Federal CARES Act. Gov. Tony Evers announced $50 million in aid payments to farmers from money Wisconsin received under the federal CARES Act, with $41.4 million being disbursed during the first round.  

In the second application period, eligibility criteria were lowered to allow for applicants with 2019 farm gross receipts between $10,000 and $5 million (previously the floor was $35,000). Payments will again be between $1,000 and $3,500 depending on the number of applications.    

DBA was a lead advocate for use of CARES Act funding for farmers across all commodities to help navigate the devastating impacts of COVID-19, including the massive disruption to the food supply chain.  

 Veterinary telehealth: Gov. Evers approved an expanded scope statement to an administrative rule that includes veterinary telehealth. The Veterinary Examining Board is establishing an ad-hoc committee to help draft the rule. DBA is seeking participation by members to ensure animal agriculture and large animal veterinarians are included on that committee. If you are a veterinarian, or you know another DBA member who might be interested in more information, contact Chad Zuleger at
czuleger@dairyforward.com.