Some say the long wait was worth it . In a White House statement , President Barack Obama called the agreement `` an important step forward in remedying USDA 's unfortunate civil rights history . '' No congressional authorization required to pay settlement . The agreement included $ 680 million in compensation for farmers . The US Department of Agriculture was sued in the class - action lawsuit .
Some say the long wait was worth it . No congressional authorization required to pay settlement . The agreement included $ 680 million in compensation for farmers . The US Department of Agriculture was sued in the class - action lawsuit .