Bill aims at reducing ag suicides

House Resolution 5259—the “Stemming the Tide of Rural Economic Stress and Suicide” or STRESS Act—was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 13. The bill seeks to “amend the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 to reauthorize the farm and ranch stress assistance network.” It would effectively create stress and suicide support programs aimed specifically at rural residents, farmers and ranchers. Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN-06) introduced the bill, which saw perfect bipartisan support among its cosponsors: Reps. John Katko (R-NY-24); David Young (R-IA-03); Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ-01); Rodney Davis (R-IL-13); Mark Pocan (D-WI-02); Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01); Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-NM-01); John Faso (R-NY-19); and Richard Nolan (D-MN-08). “Farmers in Minnesota and across America are in the midst of a suicide crisis,” Emmer said in his official announcement of the bill. “Those who work in agriculture face uniquely high-stress challenges ranging from social isolation to strong dependence on factors outside of their control. Combined with the incredible lack of mental health treatment available, our farmers have been left to suffer alone in the shadows without the help and care they need and deserve.” — WLJ