Mental Health Support for Farmers: National Crisis Hotline and Increased Funding.
This Act addresses the high suicide rates and mental health challenges within farming communities. It establishes a National Agricultural Crisis Hotline, providing 24/7 confidential emotional support, crisis intervention, and referrals for farmers, ranchers, and their families. Furthermore, the bill reauthorizes and significantly increases funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FARSAN) to $19 million annually, directly improving access to mental health services in rural areas.
Key points
Establishment of a National Agricultural Crisis Hotline, available 24/7 via voice and mobile texting application, offering emotional support and crisis intervention.
Increased annual funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FARSAN) from $10 million to $19 million for fiscal years 2024 through 2028.
Mandatory specialized mental health training for agricultural professionals (including farm loan officers and extension agents) to better support farmers.
Requirement for hotline staff to be trained crisis intervention specialists with awareness of farm stress and farming identity, ensuring culturally and linguistically appropriate support.
Expired
Citizen Poll