Changes to BRM programs will come into effect for the 2018 program year. The existing program rules remain in effect for the 2016 and 2017 program years.
AgriStability and Reference Margin Limits
- Under AgriStability the Reference Margin Limit (RML) will be capped to ensure a more equitable level of support for all producers
- The change to the RML will ensure producers from all sectors will have improved access to support under the program, regardless of their cost-structure.
- It will guarantee all producers at least 70% of their Reference Margin.
AgriStability and Late participation
- A late participation mechanism has been added that provincial and territorial governments can trigger to allow producers to enter the program late in situations where there is a significant income decline and a gap in participation.
- The mechanism will only be triggered in response to significant events and benefits will be reduced by 20% for producers who enroll late, to encourage regular annual enrollment by producers.
Reductions to AgriInvest
- Beginning in the 2018 program year, the maximum Allowable Net Sales (ANS) eligible under AgriInvest will be reduced to $1 million, down from $1.5 million.
- The annual government matching contributions will be limited to $10,000 per AgriInvest account, down from $15,000.
- Currently there is approximately $2.2 billion in AgriInvest account balances, which provides producers with flexibility and quick access to funds to help manage their risks.