U.S. Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Mike Bost (R-IL) on Nov. 13 proposed bipartisan legislation that would reauthorize the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN), which connects individuals who are engaged in farming, ranching, and other agriculture-related occupations to stress assistance programs.
“Agriculture is the economic engine of Iowa and the livelihood of farmers, their families, and rural communities across my district,” Rep. Feenstra said. “Farming can be a lonely endeavor, and it can also be a stressful industry when the economy takes a turn for the worst, tornadoes and derechos devastate farmland, and animal diseases infect flocks and livestock — all of which impact the well-being of our producers.
“As a strong voice for our farmers in Congress, I am proud to lead legislation to expand behavioral health resources in our rural communities and connect our farmers with medical professionals who can provide the care that our producers deserve,” added the congressman on Monday.
Rep. Feenstra sponsored the Farmers First Act of 2023, H.R. 6379, alongside four original cosponsors, including Rep. Bost and U.S. Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA), to increase funding for the FRSAN to a total of $15 million annually over the next five years.
If enacted, H.R. 6379 also would allow FRSAN regional centers to establish referral connections with certified community behavioral health clinics, critical access hospitals, and rural health centers, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“Our farmers and producers are the backbone of our nation’s economy and their job isn’t easy. It’s a stressful business where livelihoods can be impacted by outside — and sometimes uncontrollable — factors, like market conditions, financial pressures, and the weather,” said Rep. Bost. “It’s important that they have somewhere to turn in times of need. They need to know they are not alone and that help is available.”
The American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Rural Health Association, the National Milk Producers Federation, the American Psychological Association, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, the National Corn Growers Association, the Midwest Dairy Coalition, the American Soybean Association, the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association, Farm Aid, the National Farmers Union, and the Farm Credit Council are among numerous organizations supporting H.R. 6379.