As New York residents and supporters, we are calling on the federal government to immediately release the funds owed to farmers through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). These grants were promised, applications were approved, and investments were made based on that commitment. Yet, despite a court order lifting the funding freeze, many New York farmers are still waiting for the money they were told would arrive.

These funds are not optional handouts—they are critical reimbursements that farmers counted on to invest in sustainable, energy-efficient upgrades. Delaying these payments creates financial hardship, disrupts local economies, and undermines efforts to make agriculture more environmentally responsible. Across New York, over 150 farms and organizations are still waiting for more than $75 million in approved funding. Some recipients have been paid, but too many are left in limbo.

Farming is already a challenging industry, with narrow profit margins, rising costs, and unpredictable weather. When the government makes a commitment, farmers plan their businesses around it. A failure to deliver these funds does more than hurt individual farms—it threatens rural jobs, food production, and entire communities.

We urge the federal government to act now: release the REAP funds without further delay. Stand by the farmers who feed our nation and support sustainability in agriculture. Sign this petition to demand that our government honors its commitments to New York’s farmers.