Farmers waiting for federal assistance to offset rising diesel costs may not receive payments until after the November election.
USDA’s $8 billion Harvest Fuel Relief Program is intended to help agricultural producers manage higher fuel expenses during a challenging harvest season.
USDA Undersecretary Richard Fordyce told Reuters that payments could begin closer to the end of the year, although the department has not established a firm distribution schedule.
Fuel remains a significant operating expense for farmers, particularly during harvest, when tractors, combines and trucks consume substantial amounts of diesel.
USDA estimates agricultural fuel expenditures will increase by nearly $5 billion compared with last year.
The proposed assistance would add to federal support payments already expected to reach historically high levels in 2026.
The delayed distribution means producers may have to cover immediate harvest expenses before receiving additional federal assistance.
