Missouri farm bureau closer to offering health plans

By Blake Jackson

Missouri Farm Bureau (MOFB) is one step closer to offering affordable health plans to its members, thanks to a vote in the Missouri House of Representatives. House Bill 2082, overwhelmingly passed by a vote of 104-21, allows MOFB to create health insurance options specifically for its members.

"This is a real solution for a real problem faced by many Missourians," said MOFB President Garrett Hawkins. "Access to affordable health insurance is a major barrier, especially for young people who want to return to farming or start their own businesses in rural areas. These plans will help them protect their families' health without breaking the bank."

The bill, sponsored by Representative Kurtis Gregory, addresses the needs of uninsured or underinsured Missourians who find limited options in the Affordable Care Act marketplace due to high costs. MOFB's plan follows the successful model of eight other Farm Bureaus nationwide that already offer member health plans. These plans are expected to be comprehensive, covering preventive care, hospitalization, prescriptions, and other essential services.

With House approval secured, HB 2082 now moves to the Missouri Senate for consideration. A companion bill, SB 925 sponsored by Senator Sandy Crawford, awaits the Senate vote as well. If both bills are passed, MOFB will be able to offer its members a much-needed solution for affordable healthcare.

Photo Credit: missouri-farm-bureau