US Agriculture Dept: Authorizing up to $12 bln in programs to assist farmers hurt by tariffs

The U.S. Agriculture Department secretary Sonny Perdue crossed the wires in the last hour announcing a $12 billion program to assist American farmers hurt by the Trump administration's tariffs.

Key quotes (via Reuters)

• Programs in line with $11 billion of harm caused by tariffs.
• Package includes direct payment program, food purchase program, trade promotion program.
• Programs already authorized under commodity Credit Corp Act, does not require congressional approval.
• Aid package is short-term solution.
• This a one-time program.