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Lawmakers Introduce “Farmers First Act”

By Ryan King Jul 16, 2025 | 7:54 AM

Federal lawmakers have introduced the Farmers First Act to address the growing mental health crisis in rural America by increasing funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network from $10 million to $15 million annually for the next five years.

This bipartisan legislation aims to expand access to mental health services for farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers—including military veterans—by funding more staff and behavioral health specialists.

The bill responds to sobering statistics showing that farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. It has received strong support from a wide range of agriculture and mental health organizations. Supporters say rural communities are often overlooked when it comes to mental health services, and the legislation will help expand hotlines, support groups, and mental health training.

 

Photo Credit: Utah State University Extension.

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