The Missouri House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed (104-21) HB 2082 on Wednesday afternoon, marking a significant step in Missouri Farm Bureau’s (MOFB) mission to provide affordable and effective health plans for its members.
“This legislation is about real people, with a real problem, and we are bringing forth a real solution,” MOFB President Garrett Hawkins said. “We often talk about how to bring the next generation ‘home’, whether that is back to the farm or to our rural communities. Access to health coverage is a significant barrier for young people who cannot return to the farm, or start their own business, because they must find a job with benefits. People need a way to protect their families’ risk, without breaking the bank, and we applaud the House of Representatives for taking this step today.”
HB 2082, sponsored by Rep. Kurtis Gregory (R-Marshall), allows MOFB to offer personalized health plans for Missouri Farm Bureau members. These plans are an important option for those who are currently uninsured or underinsured due to high costs and limited options in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace.
MOFB’s model follows the success of eight other Farm Bureaus nationwide that have already been granted permission to offer member health plans. These plans provide comprehensive coverage, including preventive care, hospitalization, emergency services, prescriptions, telehealth, vision and dental benefits, and more.
With House approval, HB 2082 now moves to the Missouri Senate, where it aligns with SB 925, sponsored by Sen. Sandy Crawford (R-Buffalo).
