Federal egislators introduced the bipartisan Agriculture Access to Addiction and Mental Healthcare Act. The bill aims to improve access to mental health and addiction services for farmers and ranchers in rural communities. Wisconsin Congressman Derrick Van Orden, one of the cosponsors, says farmers and ranchers are the nation’s backbone, working tirelessly to feed and fuel America. “This legislation takes an important step toward understanding the gaps in access to mental health and addiction care for our agricultural communities,” Van Orden said. Congressman Joe Neguse of Colorado said this legislation takes an important first step towards bridging access and care gaps and ensuring that rural America has access to essential healthcare services. “Our farmers, ranchers, and producers are essential to the nation’s food security,” Neguse said, “and we must make sure we’re supporting them with access to healthcare for them and their families.” ...read more read less