"Agriculture is an important industry in this state and contributes significantly to our rural economy. I'm pleased that USDA has acted on my request so promptly," said Haslam. "I hope this assistance will help eligible farmers better prepare for the upcoming growing season."
The Secretarial disaster designation makes farmers in primary and adjoining counties eligible to apply for low-interest loans, supplemental farm payments and other assistance through their local USDA Farm Service Agency. East Tennessee was not impacted. Bad weather does impact Smoky Mountain tourism. The state is a Right to Work one. meaning unions have little influence. It must balance the budget per Constitution. Education and Medicaid both demand heavy appropriations, something which is sure to come up later. |