(a) The Department's determination regarding a request
for exemption will be based upon whether the completed application
and other satisfactory documentation establish that payment of the
assessment penalty would impose an undue financial burden upon the
producer.
(b) In addition to the general financial condition
of the producer, factors which may be considered by the Department
in determining whether the assessment penalty would impose an undue
financial burden include:
(1) adverse health conditions supported by a physician;
(2) a natural or physical disaster resulting in at
least 30% crop loss not covered by insurance;
(3) a biological disaster such as severe insect or
disease infestation not controllable by currently available pesticides
or pest management strategies;
(4) a financial disaster such as theft or fire; or
(5) any other extraordinary circumstances.
(c) Any factors which the citrus producer wishes the
Department to consider must be supported by satisfactory documentation.
The Department may request additional information or documentation
as necessary prior to making a determination.
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