The bill requires a study on the accessibility of substance use disorder treatment and mental health care for farmers and ranchers, identifying barriers and recommending improvements.
Michael Bennet
Senator
CO
The Agricultural Access to Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Mental Health Care Act of 2025 directs the Comptroller General to study and report on the accessibility of substance use disorder treatment and mental health care for farmers and ranchers. The study will identify barriers, successful programs, and best practices, and provide recommendations for improving access to and utilization of these services in agricultural communities. This report will be submitted to the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and relevant congressional committees.
Two-Year Study Ordered to Investigate Mental Health and Addiction Care Access for Farmers and Ranchers
This legislation kicks off a deep dive into a critical issue: how farmers and ranchers access care for substance use disorders and mental health challenges. Specifically, it directs the Comptroller General – essentially the government's top investigator – to conduct a comprehensive study over the next two years. The main goal is to figure out what's working, what's not, and how to improve the availability and quality of mental health and addiction services for people working in agriculture.
Digging into Rural Health Gaps
The study aims to get a clear picture of the current landscape. Researchers will map out where trained providers and services actually exist in rural areas, focusing on how accessible they truly are for agricultural workers and their families. It will also pinpoint the specific hurdles farmers and ranchers face, looking beyond just geography to include financial pressures, the unique cultural aspects of farming communities that might prevent people from seeking help, and the persistent issue of stigma.
Finding What Works and Charting a Path Forward
Beyond identifying problems, the study is tasked with finding solutions. It will spotlight successful state and local programs that could potentially be scaled up nationwide. This includes exploring initiatives like specialized training for providers who understand agriculture, developing peer-to-peer support networks, expanding telehealth options to bridge distance gaps, and creating outreach programs to make seeking help feel more normal. The investigation will also assess how effectively the existing Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network is being used. Ultimately, the Comptroller General will package these findings and concrete recommendations into a report for the Secretaries of Agriculture and Health and Human Services, as well as key congressional committees, laying the groundwork for potential future action to improve care in these essential communities.