Congressman John Joyce provided an update on May 27 regarding efforts to secure federal assistance for Pennsylvania fruit growers affected by the severe freeze that hit the state in April. A disaster declaration has already been issued for Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, and Perry Counties.
Joyce said that ongoing engagement with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) may result in additional counties across Pennsylvania being included in future disaster assistance designations as USDA continues reviewing documentation and other data from remaining counties. “After following up directly with USDA regarding the status of additional requests, I am encouraged that more counties are expected to receive this critical designation in the coming weeks. As the USDA releases more information, I will continue monitoring this situation closely and work alongside Secretary Rollins to ensure that every eligible fruit grower receives the support that they need,” continued Congressman Joyce.
He also said, “The hardworking men and women who sustain Pennsylvania’s agricultural economy deserve timely relief as they recover from these unprecedented losses. To preserve Pennsylvania’s strong agricultural communities, I look forward to all fruit growers across the Commonwealth gaining access to the critical federal resources necessary to protect their operations and support their workers.”
John Joyce is currently serving in Congress representing Pennsylvania’s 13th district after replacing Bill Shuster in 2019, according to official congressional records. He was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania in 1957 and resides in Hollidaysburg. Joyce graduated from Pennsylvania State University, University Park, with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1979.
Further updates are expected as USDA completes its review process.
