The USDA has announced that applications can now be submitted by eligible farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who claim to have experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs.  Distribution of funds is authorized under Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act.

In announcing the initiative, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack stated, "The opening of the application process is an important step in delivering on our commitment of providing financial assistance to those who face discrimination and USDA farm lending as swiftly and efficiently as possible".  He added, "USDA will continue to work with our national vendor partners and community-based organizations to make sure eligible farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners have clear information about what is available to them, how to apply and where to obtain assistance with their questions at each step of the way".