Protecting America’s Orchardists and Nursery Tree Growers Act

Key Points

• This bill expands a federal program that helps farmers replant trees, bushes, and vines after natural disasters. It would now cover damage caused by pests and diseases, rather than just insects and weather events.
• Farmers could qualify for financial help even if their trees are still alive but can no longer grow enough fruit to make a profit. It also removes rules that required farmers to prove a long history of production to get help.
• The plan gives growers more flexibility when they replant. They could choose different types of trees, plant them closer together, or even move them to a new location if the original spot is no longer healthy for growing.
• The government would be required to tell farmers if their application for help is approved or denied within 120 days. This change is meant to help farmers make decisions and start replanting their land much faster.
• The Secretary of Agriculture would have the power to waive limits on how many acres can be covered. This ensures that larger farms hit by major disasters can still get the support they need to stay in business.

Impact Analysis

Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.