U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), Chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, has joined a bipartisan group led by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) to introduce the Farmers First Act of 2025. This legislation aims to enhance mental health resources for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities by reauthorizing and increasing funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN).
“Arkansas farmers face unique challenges that are often beyond their control and can take a serious toll on their mental health – from unpredictable weather and market volatility to the isolation that often comes with rural life,” Boozman said. “We have a responsibility to ensure they are not facing these burdens alone. This legislation builds on our efforts to deliver meaningful support and expand access to mental health care in rural communities.”
Senator Baldwin emphasized the hard work of Wisconsin’s farmers: “Wisconsin’s farmers and ranchers work hard every day to keep their businesses running and our Made in Wisconsin agricultural economy moving forward. But too often, the stress, isolation, and physical demands of this job leave them with nowhere to turn when it all gets to be too much.”
“Iowa farmers work tirelessly from sunrise to sundown – rain or shine – to feed and fuel the world,” Ernst stated. “Their work isn’t easy, and mental health issues, including suicide, are too common in our agriculture community.”
The proposed act would authorize $15 million annually for FRSAN through fiscal year 2030, an increase from the current $10 million. These funds aim to provide suicide prevention training for farm advocates; behavioral health specialists; support groups tailored for agricultural workers; expanded crisis hotlines; and referral services.
Boozman played a role in establishing FRSAN in the 2018 Farm Bill and has consistently supported its expansion. The program currently operates through four regional centers.
Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Tina Smith (D-MN) have co-sponsored the bill.
The Farmers First Act of 2025 is backed by several organizations including the National Farmers Union, National Rural Health Association, American Psychological Association Services among others.
