Timber Harvesters, Haulers, and Landowners Market Disruptions Relief Act

Financial Relief for Businesses: Eligible entities can receive an initial payment of up to $20,000 and potentially further payments to help offset revenue losses caused by market disruptions. (Section 2(c)(3))

Support for Operational Costs: The bill allows funds to be used for essential costs like payroll, fuel, equipment repairs, and debt service, which helps keep businesses running. (Section 2(c)(3)(5)(A))

Market Expansion: Businesses can use the assistance to expand their access to other market opportunities within the forest product sector. (Section 2(c)(3)(5)(B))

Right to Appeal: If an application for payment is denied, the applicant has the right to submit an appeal to the National Appeals Division of the Department of Agriculture. (Section 2(d)(1))

Strict Eligibility Requirements: To qualify, businesses must have earned at least $35,000 in Federal taxable income in the year before the disruption and derive at least 75 percent of their gross revenue from harvesting or hauling. (Section 2(g)(1))

Payment Reductions: If the appropriated funds are not enough to cover the second or subsequent payments, the Secretary must prorate the amounts, meaning individuals may receive less than the calculated amount. (Section 2(c)(3)(4))

Penalties for Errors: Entities that submit fraudulent information are barred from receiving funds and face fines determined by the Secretary. (Section 2(d)(2))