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Washington, D.C. – Last night, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) urged members of Congress to support our nation's farmers by taking action on his Stemming the Tide of Rural Economic Stress and Suicide (STRESS) Act (H.R. 5259) which is a part of the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018. Emmer's legislation will make mental health treatment more available for farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers who, due to the nature of their work and the lack of mental health treatment available, suffer from higher rates of depression and suicide. 

Watch Congressman Emmer speak on the House floor here.

Farm Bill

 

Full transcript:

Mr. Speaker,

In my home state of Minnesota, agriculture is one of the main drivers of our economy.

And right now, farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers across the country are looking to Congress for a strong Farm Bill that improves the farm safety net and brings certainty to producers in uncertain times.

Because life on the farm isn’t what it used to be. Today, farmers are suffering some of the worst rates of suicide in the country.

General social isolation, downturn of the market, low farm income, regulatory strains, and lack of treatment options all make it hard for farmers to get the help they need.

That’s why I introduced the STRESS Act to boost resources specifically for farmer’s mental health. With the support of Chairman Conaway and the House Agriculture Committee, I’m proud to see it included in this year’s Farm Bill.

Our farmers who feed the world, are feeling the weight of the world on their shoulders. It’s time we get them the help and care they deserve.

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Learn more about the STRESS Act here.

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