The move has been welcomed by trade body US Apple Association which has been lobbying for disaster assistance for its members. Apple growers in different producing states have suffered severe weather-related losses this year such as frost, rain and wind damage.
'Our industry appreciates the support of our Senate allies whose action today will probably save some family farms in Idaho, Michigan, New York and Washington,' said USApple vice-president Jim Cranney.
The bill, which passed through the House of Representatives in July did not include a disaster assistance package. Before the amended bill becomes law, a conference committee of members of both houses will be appointed to negotiate on any differences between the two bills. The final result could therefore change, and USApple will continue its lobbying.
The Senate's bill provides assistance for losses in 2002 as well as 2001 for those growers whose losses exceed 35 per cent of an average crop. Payments would be limited to $80,000 and only those with incomes lower than $2.5million would be eligible.
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