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Kansas farmers are responding to President Trump’s new $12 billion farm aid package, aimed at offsetting market disruptions and rising input costs, and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran says the support is necessary, though not sufficient. In an interview, Sen. Moran said there is a “sadness that this is necessary,” but recognizes the funds provide crucial short-term relief.

The aid will go to row crop and specialty crop producers, with payments calculated later this month based on production costs, prices, and yields. Farmers will receive pre-filled forms to apply, and payments are expected by the end of February.

Sen. Moran noted that while the package offers temporary relief, it does not fully address the challenges farmers face, especially with low commodity prices and reduced demand from China. He emphasized the importance of trade agreements and international markets to keep U.S. agriculture profitable. For Kansas farmers, recent rain has helped, but the sector still faces financial pressures.

Sen. Moran chairs a subcommittee overseeing trade and said he will continue advocating for policies that expand market access for U.S. crops.