Farm Bureau Health Plans legislation passes Ohio House

COLUMBUS — Legislation which would result in the creation of Farm Bureau Health Plans, giving access to affordable, personalized health care plans for Ohio farm families has passed out of the Ohio House.

SB 100, introduced by Sen. Susan Manchester (R-Lakeview) and passed the Ohio Senate in early April, was approved by the Ohio House today with the support of Rep. Bob Peterson (R-Sabina). The bill would help provide health care opportunities, close the gap in health care coverage and improve the well-being of current Ohio Farm Bureau members.

“The direct positive impact of the creation of Farm Bureau Health Plans cannot be overstated,” said Ohio Farm Bureau President Bill Patterson. “For this legislation to be passed in the span of only a few months clearly indicates just how significant the issue of the lack of attainable and customized health coverage is for rural Ohioans. We appreciate the work of Ms. Manchester, Mr. Peterson and their fellow lawmakers for making this a priority, as well as our members and the Ohio Farm Bureau policy team for getting this crucial bill across the finish line.”

Farm Bureau Health Plans, which would serve as a member benefit similar to health plans offered by a number of other state Farm Bureaus across the country, would be in addition to the Ohio Farm Bureau Health Benefits Plan, which already offers small businesses health care plans for their employees.

“I’m thrilled that the passage of Senate Bill 100 marks the first bill passed of my Senate career,” Sen. Manchester said. “The district I proudly represent is the most agriculture-intensive in the state, and Senate Bill 100 was created for the hardworking farmers back home. Farm Bureau Health Plans will allow for greater economic opportunity and mobility for farmers across the state. I look forward to continuing to work alongside Ohio’s farmers to develop agriculture-forward, farmer-focused policies that strengthen rural communities and improve lives across Ohio.”

The legislation will now head to Gov. Mike DeWine’s desk for his consideration and to be signed into law.