By Garrett Hawkins, President, Missouri Farm Bureau.
The saying “good things come to those who wait” truly applies here. More than three years ago, Missouri Farm Bureau began working to find an affordable health coverage solution for our members—many of whom had expressed deep concern about the lack of viable options on the marketplace. The stories we heard were heartbreaking. We knew that Farm Bureau could stand in the gap and help these members, so we went to work.
To provide our members with meaningful health coverage, Missouri law needed to change. While other states advanced similar legislation, Missouri lagged behind. For two years, our efforts to pass the necessary legislation were unsuccessful. But we didn’t give up. Instead, we were only more determined.
Thanks to the unwavering efforts of our legislative champions and MOFB members across the state, I’m proud to share that Senate Bill 79 passed the Missouri House just hours before the end of session. The biggest hurdles have been cleared, and the bill now awaits Governor Kehoe’s signature.
This achievement is a testament to what Missouri Farm Bureau represents. We listen to our members. We advocate on their behalf. And we persist until we find solutions.
Here’s the issue: many farmers, small business owners, and individuals not covered by group plans struggle to find affordable healthcare. This critical legislation will allow Missouri Farm Bureau to offer health plans that are projected to cost 30% less than comparable unsubsidized plans available on the individual marketplace.
These new plans not only benefit individuals and families but also help sustain rural clinics and hospitals—strengthening the backbone of our rural communities. Though new to Missouri, these types of plans have a proven track record in 10 other states. The Tennessee Farm Bureau, for example, has offered similar plans for years, with a 98% retention rate—a clear sign of their value and sustainability.
The passage of SB 79 marks a major step forward in our mission to provide accessible, affordable health coverage for our members. We especially want to recognize Senator Kurtis Gregory for his tireless advocacy and leadership as the bill sponsor the past three years. We’re also extremely grateful to Rep. Brad Pollitt for sponsoring the legislation in the House. We extend our thanks to Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin, Senate Majority Leader Tony Luetkemeyer, Senate Insurance and Banking Committee Chair Sandy Crawford, House Speaker Jon Patterson, House Floor Leader Alex Riley, and all those in both chambers who helped move this legislation forward. Governor Mike Kehoe is a fierce advocate for farmers and working families all across this state, and we thank him for his leadership this year. It took a dedicated, coordinated effort to reach this point.
Now, with this legislation on its way to becoming law, we can finally go to work delivering what our members have long needed—affordable, dependable healthcare coverage. Missouri Farm Bureau has been working to improve the quality of life for our members for more than 110 years. This marks yet another milestone in our history of serving members.
Missouri Farm Bureau is the state’s largest farm organization with a presence in every county throughout the state. Learn more on our website or follow @MissouriFarmBureau on Facebook, @MOFarmBureau on X or @MOFarmBureau on Instagram.