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Minnesota Farm Bureau calls on Legislature to address farm financial woes

The director of public policy for Minnesota Farm Bureau says state legislators must address financial and emotional challenges facing agriculture.

Amber Hanson-Glaeser tells Brownfield farmers need help as the 2019 Legislative Session gets underway.

“Whether that’s resources for mental health, or how we could help our rural communities through broadband, childcare, and some of those things. A lot of (our priorities) are stemming from how we can help our farmers and ranchers across the state.”

She’s confident the down farm economy has the attention of lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

“We’re seeing them look at mental health as a huge priority on both sides and in both chambers, so that’s really good to see. But also healthcare, taxes, and some of those things that really affect the bottom line of small businesses including our farms.”

With 2019 being a budget year, Hanson-Glaeser says Farm Bureau wants to see money put towards programs that support farmers and ranchers.