Central Louisiana News

During the FY2025 Department of Agriculture Budget Hearing, Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05) brought attention to the challenges facing Louisiana farmers and producers due to adverse weather conditions. In a conversation with U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Letlow emphasized the urgent need for assistance to the crawfish industry in the state.

Representative Letlow pointed out the severe impact of drought on Louisiana's agriculture sector, stating, "my district is one of the more robust and diverse agriculture districts in the country." She highlighted the lack of a safety net for crops and livestock adequately covered by existing programs, especially concerning the crawfish industry that has been devastated by adverse weather conditions.

In response, Secretary Vilsack expressed willingness to collaborate but emphasized the need to ensure legal alignment before providing assistance. He stated, "I'm happy to work with you... I want to make sure we, in fact, have that discretion."

Letlow further pressed Vilsack on the inclusion of drought as a cause of loss for farm-raised fish, referencing language included in the Fiscal Year 24 Appropriations bill. Vilsack, while cautious, expressed readiness to engage and collaborate to find a solution, stating, "I just want to make sure that legally everything is in order... I just want to make sure I'm right when I say I can help you."

The Congresswoman stressed the urgency of the situation, noting, "My farmers are depending on that, so I look forward to hearing from you." Vilsack assured Letlow that efforts would be made without delay, emphasizing the importance of legal compliance in providing necessary assistance to the affected farmers and producers.