(a) In general, the term ``eligible producer'' means, in addition to other requirements as may apply, an individual or entity described in paragraph (b) of this section that, as determined by the Secretary, assumes the production and market risks associated with the agricultural production of crops or livestock on a farm either as the owner of the farm, when there is no contract grower, or a contract grower of the livestock when there is a contract grower.
(b) To be eligible for benefits, an individual or legal entity must submit a farm operating plan for the purpose of payment limitation review in accordance with part 1400 of this chapter and be a:
(1) Citizen of the United States;
(2) Resident alien; for purposes of this part, resident alien means ``lawful alien'';
(3) Partnership of citizens of the United States; or
(4) Corporation, limited liability corporation, or other farm organizational structure organized under State law.