WASHINGTON (April 23, 2020) — Public Lands Council President Bob Skinner released the following statement praising the passage of the fourth legislative relief package that provides additional funds to critical assistance programs for cattle and sheep producers:

“Federal lands ranchers play a major role in American agriculture, raising 60 percent of our nation’s sheep herd and 40 percent of our nation’s cattle herd. The expanded relief provided through Paycheck Protection Program Increase Act of 2020 recognizes the unique challenges COVID-19 presents to agriculture in rural America. The legislation provides additional funding for assistance programs for individuals to navigate economic impacts brought on by the virus, and expands resources for rural healthcare systems where public lands ranchers live and work. The ability for the cattle and sheep industries to continue producing food and fiber is critical. Thank you to all who continue to recognize and prioritize the importance of American agriculture amid the COVID-19 pandemic.”