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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)1: How can I participate in the Love v. Johanns
lawsuit? 1: How can I participate in the Love v. Johanns lawsuit? At the present time, a class has not yet been certified. In January 2004, Plaintiffs filed a motion for class certification of two of three proposed subclasses, which is likely to be opposed by USDA. In September 2004, the Court issued a decision denying class certification. The plaintiffs filed a petition for permission to appeal, and the Court of Appeals granted the petition on December 16, 2004. Oral argument before the Court of Appeals was held on February 6, 2006, and a decision was issued by the D.C. Circuit on March 3, 2006, affirming in part and remanding in part to the District Court for further briefing. The D.C. Circuit affirmed the denial of class certification and dismissal of a claim for failure to investigate complaints of discrimination. At the same time, the D.C. Circuit remanded the plaintiffs’ claim brought under the Administrative Procedure Act (“APA”) for further briefing by the parties. Now the case is back before the District Court for briefing on Plaintiffs’ APA claims. The information you have concerning your experiences with the FSA or FmHA may be helpful in obtaining class certification in the Love v. Johanns lawsuit. In addition, in the event that you qualify as a member of the class, you may be able to participate in the suit as a class member if certification is granted. If you were denied a farm operating loan, ownership loan or emergency loan by FSA or FmHA, or if you were refused an application to apply for a farm loan, we want to hear your story. Find out how you can help. 3: How can I submit my contact information? You can submit your contact information by clicking here if you are a woman farmer or prospective farmer. Please submit once per person only. Check back later for more FAQs |