WASHINGTON — Senators John Hoeven and Jon Tester introduced new, bipartisan legislation on June 22 that would modify the Livestock Forage Program (LFP) and Emergency Assistance for Livestock Program (EALP). The proposed Livestock Disaster Relief Act would support ranchers with increased assistance following natural disasters.

“Our legislation makes common-sense improvements to the Livestock Forage and Emergency Assistance for Livestock Programs to help better meet the needs of our livestock producers when disaster strikes,” Hoeven said. 

The act would increase aligned coverage between LFP and EALP as well as increase producer assistance under LFP to more accurately compensate for feed costs. Furthermore, it would specify transportation costs for feed, water and livestock as covered losses under ELAP.

“As a third-generation farmer, I know firsthand how challenging it can be for Montanans when disasters like drought or winter storms strike,” Tester said. “That’s why I’m proud to team up with Senator Hoeven on this bipartisan bill to ensure that Montana ranchers receive the relief they need to respond to future disasters so that they can continue to raise the best cattle in the world.”

Hoeven and Tester are working to include the Livestock Disaster Relief Act in the upcoming Farm Bill.