A news release today from USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) stated that, “[RMA] is authorizing self-certification on replant inspections and waiving witness signatures in certain situations as part of a broader suite of flexibilities to support producers during the coronavirus pandemic. Specifically, Approved Insurance Providers (AIPs) may allow the use of self-certification replant inspections for certain crops with 100 gross acres (before considering share) per unit in lieu of 50 acres, and they may waive the witness signature requirement for approval of Assignment of Indemnity through July 15, 2020, for applicable crop years.
“‘RMA recognizes the challenges the crop insurance industry and America’s farmers and ranchers face,’ RMA Administrator Martin Barbre said. ‘We will continue to provide flexibility that supports the health and safety of all parties while also ensuring the Federal crop insurance program continues to serve as a vital risk management tool.’
“Many state and local governments have issued ‘stay-at-home’ orders in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which may prevent loss adjusters from completing on-the-farm replant inspections and obtaining associated signatures required for replant certification purposes. In the absence of ‘stay-at-home’ orders, loss adjusters and policyholders may also be prevented from meeting in person due to concerns of spreading COVID-19.”
Today’s update added that, “For the most current updates on available services, visit farmers.gov/coronavirus. “
