The bill aims to address mental health challenges faced by farmers and ranchers by conducting a study on the accessibility of addiction and mental health care for those impacted by agricultural factors. The study will examine barriers, best practices, and recommend improvements, and provide recommendations for financial support for therapy sessions. It emphasizes collaboration with federal agencies, state departments, and stakeholders and mandates a report to be submitted within 180 days. An authorization of appropriations of $1,000,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2029 is included to support the study.
Agricultural Access to Addiction and Mental Health Care Act
This bill directs the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to study the accessibility of addiction and mental health care providers and services for farmers and ranchers impacted by severe and persistent drought, extreme weather events, instability in the commodities market, and misinformation targeting consumers.
For example, the study must examine (1) best practices and successful programs at the state and local level that can be replicated at the federal level to address addiction and mental health care needs in agricultural communities, and (2) recommendations for improving the accessibility of care.
In conducting the study, NIFA must collaborate and consult with relevant federal agencies, state departments of agriculture, and mental health and agricultural organizations.
