Release No. 0642.96

Statement

                              by 
             Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman
                on Farm Loan Foreclosure Actions
                       December 18, 1996


     "Today I ordered our Farm Service Agency to temporarily halt
foreclosure sales on delinquent farm loans until a determination can be made
on each case as to whether there is any evidence of discrimination or
inconsistency in program delivery.

     "I called for this action after hearing the concerns that have been
raised over the past several weeks about inconsistencies and discrimination
in some U.S. Department of Agriculture programs, including farmer loan
programs where foreclosures are being processed.   

     "I have compassion for anyone who faces losing their farm for any
reason. But it is simply unacceptable to me if the potential loss of a farm
stems from any unequal treatment or discrimination by this Department. It is
for this reason that I have asked for an expedited review of all pending
foreclosure sales to ensure that there are no unresolved discrimination
complaints or allegations of discrimination. 

     "In general, foreclosure sales will be delayed until the files have
been reviewed for compliance with all program requirements as well as
compliance with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and departmental civil
rights procedures and regulations. 

     "It is anticipated that foreclosure sales will resume upon completion
of the review on individual cases where the review plainly demonstrates that
there are no issues regarding discrimination or inequitable treatment.  We
hope the full review will be completed by February 1. In addition, any case
which raises questions or issues regarding discrimination or inequitable
treatment will be forwarded to Washington immediately for review.   

     "As we enter the new year, we intend to focus all of USDA on how we
better manage civil rights issues. We want to create an environment in which
every customer who comes to a USDA office is treated fairly, effectively,
and efficiently.

     "On December 10, I called for a national forum on program delivery and
customer service at USDA (USDA News Release No. 0631.96) and two days later
I established a Civil Rights Action Team (USDA News Release No. 0634.96) to
conduct a thorough audit of USDA civil rights issues inside and outside the
department.

     "I am committed to ensuring that USDA is a diverse, civil department
to both its employees and its customers."  

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