a) Source

The Department incorporates the Secretary's definition of a socially-disadvantaged farmer as stated in subsection (b).

b) Definition

1. 1) A socially-disadvantaged farmer is a farmer that is a member of a socially disadvantaged group. A socially disadvantaged group is a group whose members have been subject to racial or ethnic prejudice because of their identity as members of a group, without regard to their individual qualities. These groups consist of the following:

   1. A) American Indians or Alaskan Natives;
   2. B) Asians;
   3. C) Blacks or African Americans;
   4. D) Native Hawaiians or other Pacific Islanders; and
   5. E) Hispanics.
2. 2) A socially disadvantaged farmer may be an individual or entity who is a member of a socially disadvantaged group. For an entity, at least 50% ownership in the farm business must be held by socially-disadvantaged individuals.