Congressman Harris Applauds USDA Disaster Declaration for Maryland Following April Freeze

June 16, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01), Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Secretary Brooke Rollins for approving a Secretarial Disaster Declaration for Maryland following the April 21 spring freeze, which caused significant crop losses across Maryland. The declaration provides eligible producers with access to federal disaster assistance and low-interest emergency loans to help support their recovery. Statement from Congressman Harris: “The April freeze was a devastating setback for many of the farmers I represent in Maryland’s First District. I was glad to work with Secretary Brooke Rollins to secure this disaster declaration and provide the relief our producers need. As Chairman of the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I'll continue working directly with USDA to ensure Maryland farmers receive the federal support available as they recover." Farmers and agricultural producers seeking information about the disaster declaration or eligibility for assistance are encouraged to contact USDA at FPAC.BC.Congressional@usda.gov. Congressman Harris's office is also available to help constituents navigate available federal resources. For media inquiries, please contact Michella Carter at Michella.Carter@mail.house.gov Issues : Agriculture Economy Environment