Healthcare costs continue to be a burden for many farm families.
Minnesota Farmers Union president Gary Wertish says premiums are rising.
“With the (Affordable Care Act) subsidy getting removed. And healthcare affects everybody, it’s not a partisan issue. And we need to look at that seriously.”
He tells Brownfield some states are attempting to create solutions for farms and small businesses.
“Minnesota Farmers Union, we’ve advocated for expanding the Minnesota Care program. It would allow farmers and individuals to buy into it and pay a premium on the basis of your income. If your income is high, you pay a higher premium.”
Wertish says income fluctuations are common in agriculture and Minnesota is awaiting federal approval on a waiver to negotiate rates.
