farmers

The report focused on the overall mental well-being of those in the agriculture industry. Of the 671 respondents, 67% reported feeling sad or depressed and 9% experienced suicidal thoughts.

One law allows the Florida Farm Bureau to offer largely unregulated coverage to members. Another gives law enforcement discretion when arresting a person with a “significant” medical condition.

Northern District of Florida Chief Judge Mark Walker declined to dismiss a part of the lawsuit that argued restrictions give an unconstitutional advantage to Florida farmers over out-of-state competitors.

The legislation would clear the way for “medical benefit plans” that would not be subject to the same state and federal regulations as insurance. The House will soon vote on a version of the bill.

The bill would clear the way for “medical benefit plans” for farmers that would not be subject to the same state and federal regulations as health insurance.

Many farmers have traditionally handled their own problems, whether it’s a busted tractor or debilitating anxiety. “With the older generation, it’s still, ‘Suck it up,’ " says one mental health advocate and farmer.

The law would help at least three Black farmers who sought licenses to grow the plants but were deemed ineligible to apply by state officials.

The state issued licenses to Suwannee County's Terry Donnell Gwinn and Bascom-based Shedrick McGriff. They come nearly a decade after lawmakers laid out a blueprint for the industry and years of legal delays.

It's been over a decade since whole milk through the National School Lunch Program was effectively banned. Dairy farmers, some health experts and members of Congress say it’s time to bring it back.

Distrust of public health authorities, who say drinking raw milk is dangerous, fuels demand for unpasteurized milk products, leaders on both sides of the issue say.