Senate moves on firming up agriculture loan program

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Legislation aimed at tightening up a longstanding loan program administered by the state Department of Agriculture advanced to the Senate floor in Charleston this week. A legislative audit of the Department of Agriculture revealed problems and discrepancies.

“This clarifies the rules have be done and the Department of Agriculture has to tighten up the structure within certain guidelines we put in place based on the post audit report,” said Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Ron Miller of Greenbrier County.

The audit gained attention when Senate President Jeff Kessler and House Speaker Tim Miley indicated plans to forward the findings onto federal prosecutors for further investigation. The move hinted there was suspicion of illegal activity although no accusations were made.

Former State Agriculture Commissioner Gus Douglass adamantly denied any wrongdoing or mishandling of the loans during his tenure.

“They found there were discrepancies, maybe not illegal discrepancies, but discrepancies in the loan process,” said Miller. “This loan started in the 50s and in the 50s it was done by handshake.  This tightens it up and makes it fit modern banking standards.”

Miller said Senate Bill 350 will also strive to keep the money in the agriculture community.

“We think it’s important to keep this money flowing in projects involving agriculture,” he said. “It’s not just for farms, but it’s also for infrastructure for other projects as they relate to agriculture.”





More News

News
UMWA to fight planned Pennsylvania coal mine closure, 700 mining jobs at risk
Mine located south of Waynesburg, Pa., less than 40 miles from Morgantown.
March 28, 2024 - 2:23 pm
News
Bridge collapse having an impact on West Virginia coal shipments
About third of the coal mined in northern West Virginia is shipped out of the presently idled Port of Baltimore
March 28, 2024 - 1:18 pm
News
Charleston animal shelter seeks more donations, fosters following U-Haul crash
The corner roof of the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association building was stabilized Thursday morning.
March 28, 2024 - 12:41 pm
News
Controversial unemployment bill becomes law without governor's signature
The bill freezes employer contributions and freezes benefits for people who lose their jobs.
March 28, 2024 - 12:20 pm


Your Comments