Tax Relief and Federal Aid on the Way for Farmers Hit by Hurricane Helene

Georgia’s farmers and timber producers are getting some good news following the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Governor Brian Kemp just signed a new law that will keep state income taxes off federal disaster payments tied to the storm. That means more of that aid money will stay in producers’ pockets—something that could be worth up to $300 million across the board.

This comes alongside earlier efforts from Georgia lawmakers, who already approved nearly $900 million in relief. That includes low-interest loans for ag producers and funding to clear storm-damaged timber.

Federal dollars are also starting to move. A schedule just released by USDA shows that some farmers can start applying for disaster aid as soon as May 30, with windows open through mid-September. But the full rollout—especially block grants—still depends on how quickly states can finalize agreements with federal officials.

In the meantime, some producers are scraping by—dipping into savings, delaying 2025 planting, or even selling land or equipment. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins said she’s seen the damage firsthand and called the situation heartbreaking. For many across the Southeast, help can’t come soon enough.