Wednesday, Jul 27 2011 3:15PM
Native American farmers and ranchers who were denied a grant as part of a farm loan program can submit a claim to get money from the USDA.
Janie Hipp, senior adviser to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack with the Office of Tribal Relations, announced the settlement claims filing period has begun for Native American farmers and ranchers in the Keepseagle class action lawsuit.
The lawsuit filed against the USDA alleges the agency discriminated against Native American farmers and ranchers who applied for a farm loan program. The suit was settled last year.
"Now that the claims process is open, Native American farmers and ranchers who believe they are entitled to funds under the Keepseagle settlement must file a claim within 180 days in order to have a chance to receive a cash payment or loan forgiveness," Hipp said. "Tribal leaders may want to consider advising Tribal members of the requirement to obtain and submit a completed claims package if they wish to participate in the Keepseagle claims process."
The filing period ends December 27. Up to $760 million will be available for monetary, tax and debt relief. Lawyers for the Keepseagle plaintiffs will conduct meetings during the claims period to help those who wish to file claims.
Hipp recently stated the USDA plans to improve access to agency loans for tribes nationwide.