Press Releases

Washington, DC – Earlier today, as first reported by The Kansas City Star, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) introduced the WHIP+ Reauthorization Act. Under the Trump administration, the Wildfire and Hurricane Indemnity Program Plus (WHIP +) provided payments to crop producers who suffered losses from eligible natural disasters. In an effort to support and help producers suffering from drought in Missouri, Congressman Alford is introducing legislation to reauthorize this program.

Congressman Alford issued the following statement:

“Currently, 79% of Missouri is experiencing drought conditions, with nearly 11% of the state experiencing extreme drought, D3 levels. Conditions like these have persisted over the past year and have placed enormous burdens and stress on our hardworking farmers and ranchers. To combat problems like this, the Trump Administration introduced the WHIP + program. Unfortunately, we have let this initiative expire. 

That is exactly why I am introducing legislation to reauthorize this critical assistance. Farmers and ranchers all over Missouri have called out for help and that is what we are going to provide them.”

Missouri Farm Bureau President, Garrett Hawkins added:

“Missouri’s farmers and ranchers have endured exceptional drought these past two years. The lack of moisture coupled with continued high input prices and supply chain issues has pushed some farmers to their limits. We appreciate Congressman Alford working to extend critical aid to farmers and ranchers. MOFB will continue to advocate for drought relief as well as the approval of programs that help make our farms more resilient to extreme drought in the future, such as improved water storage.”

Media inquiries for Rep. Alford should be directed to Austin Higginbotham at Austin.Higginbotham@house.mail.gov