To amend the Agricultural Act of 2014 to allow for the advance payment of assistance under Tree Assistance Program, and for other purposes.

# Summary of HR 6436 **What the Bill Does** HR 6436 proposes to modify the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), which helps farmers and forest owners recover from natural disasters like storms, droughts, and wildfires. The main change would allow participants to receive financial assistance payments in advance, rather than waiting until after they've already spent money replanting trees or making repairs. This change aims to make it easier for people to afford the upfront costs of recovery. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects farmers, forest owners, and timber producers who rely on tree crops or forest management. It could also indirectly benefit rural communities that depend on forestry.

The bill would essentially give these groups better access to funds when they need them most—during the initial recovery phase after a disaster. **Current Status** HR 6436 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but not yet voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC). Further action would require committee review and approval before it could advance to a floor vote.