News

MO Farm Bureau health plan pending

Legislation allowing the Missouri Farm Bureau to offer a health plan to its members is awaiting action the final days of the Missouri legislative session.

Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins says he’s optimistic legislation will cross the finish line.

“Missouri needs to get this done. It’s year three and we’ll continue to push to finish strong and get this to Governor Kehoe’s desk.”

State Senator Kurtis Gregory, from District 21, sponsors a bill that provides an exception for the non-profit membership organization to offer a health plan, Senate Bill 79. Gregory says he believes it has a greater chance to pass this year.

“I do think it’s in a better place now than it’s ever been with some of the language that’s been added to it,” says Gregory. “The main difference between this year and last year is we spent five hours on it in the Senate. That’s never happened before.”

There are now 12 state Farm Bureaus across the country that offer health plans for their membership. Hawkins says this year, health plans were approved in Alabama and Florida, and state lawmakers in Ohio are still considering legislation.

The Missouri State Legislative session is scheduled to wrap up on Friday.