South Dakota Representative Kristi Noem says she’s pleased USDA will be disseminating the second half of the Market Facilitation Program payments. Just a few weeks ago Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue had indicated there would not be a second payment because of the new USMCA. However, Noem says the administration changed course with many farm state lawmakers advocating for additional help.

She says the payment levels are inadequate, even on soybeans at $1.65 per bushel on half of production. However, it is still welcome assistance for the state’s farmers.

Noem believes progress will be made on resolving the trade war at the G-20 Summit in November and that’s why Perdue has already announced there will be no trade aid in 2019.

Perdue does not expect the second payment to be outlined any later than December. The amount is still being discussed as they are looking at market conditions.