Hinds Today

U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith from Mississippi has secured a commitment from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack for a seamless signup process for Mississippians applying for aid through the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP). The commitment was made during a Budget Review Hearing where Hyde-Smith also advocated for the elimination of a tax hindering the Veterinary Loan Repayment Program.

Speaking about the assistance provided through the EFRP, Hyde-Smith expressed her relief, stating, "I am very relieved that forest landowners will be able to access these funds for costs associated with commercial thinning, firebreaks, and debris removal in fighting pine beetles." She emphasized the importance of supporting Mississippi forest landowners, homeowners, and municipalities, adding, "this emergency forest restoration authorization is a huge step forward for landowners, and I want to make sure as many eligible Mississippians get help as soon as possible."

Hyde-Smith also commended Secretary Vilsack for recommending the elimination of a federal withholding tax on Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program awards. She highlighted the significance of ensuring that all appropriated funds are utilized for the intended purpose of supporting veterinarians serving in rural areas, stating, "I think it is very important that Congress provides your Department with the statutory authority it needs to spend all of these appropriated dollars on actual awards for the veterinarians protecting our food supply and public health in rural communities."

Furthermore, Hyde-Smith raised concerns about the need for Congress to support the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) in reinstating critical market reports that are at risk of being canceled or discontinued. Highlighting the importance of accurate data for the agricultural industry, she expressed her worries about the potential impact of losing essential information on market dynamics and production decisions.

Hyde-Smith's proactive engagement and advocacy for crucial agricultural and rural issues demonstrate her commitment to representing the interests of Mississippians in the Senate.