Cattle and Biofuels Clamor for Aid – March 17, 2020

Cattle and biofuels clamor for aid, as Schumer proposes broad plan

 

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue should tap “USDA’s bank,” a Depression-era agency with easy access to billions of dollars, to bail out cattle ranchers hit by sharp declines in beef prices as Covid-19 mounts, said ranch activists on Monday. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer separately suggested a $750 billion federal infusion to follow the “families first” relief bill in the House.

 

Restaurants shutter, leaving prospects uncertain for millions of workers

Restaurants and bars in many states and the nation’s biggest cities were ordered closed on Monday in response to the coronavirus pandemic, threatening the livelihoods of millions of restaurant workers and the future of many small businesses.

 

Local farmers need federal support, Pingree says

As the spread of coronavirus shutters businesses, schools, and restaurants, farmers who sell locally and regionally need support from the federal government, said Rep. Chellie Pingree in a letter sent Monday to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

 

USDA approves telework in DC region after coronavirus case

The USDA shut down part of its mammoth Washington headquarters after an employee tested positive for the coronavirus. It also announced that “maximized telework is available for NCR (National Capital Region) employees” beginning Tuesday.

TODAY’S QUICK HITS

Bayer moving towards settlement of suits (Wall Street Journal): Bayer agreed to the terms of a settlement deal that would resolve litigation brought by tens of thousands of people, who allege that the company’s Roundup weedkiller causes cancer.

 

 

Impossible Foods raises half a billion dollars (Reuters): Plant-based meat company Impossible Foods raised $500 million in its latest private equity offering, giving the company a $4 billion valuation.

 

 

Lobster season slows to a crawl (Associated Press): Late winter and early spring traditionally are slow periods for lobster exports but prices are tumbling because of the coronavirus’ impact on sales to China and Europe.

 

 

Easter egg roll is canceled (White House): The traditional Easter egg roll, scheduled for April 13 on the White House grounds, has been canceled to prevent the spread of Covid-19, announced the Office of the First Lady on social media.

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