Stay Informed

Providing a health care benefit for members is Indiana Farm Bureau’s No. 1 priority this year, said Katrina Hall, INFB director of public policy.

“Our members have been asking for this for years, but for this to work, we need a legislative change,” she explained.

Legislators need to know how important the issue of health benefits is, she explained.

“Members must be willing to share stories with their legislators about the impact of health care options and, in particular, the impact of health care costs to their families,” Hall said.

The goal of the campaign is to make it possible for Farm Bureau to offer an affordable option for sole proprietorships and working owners with fewer than two employees.

INFB has done extensive research over the last year, including a membership survey, and 80% of the survey respondents are sole proprietors – working owners without employees. Therefore, they don’t qualify for the association health plans that are currently available on the market.

For INFB’s legislative efforts to be successful, it will require the effort and dedication of the organization’s grassroots members, Hall said.

“We urge members who have had issues accessing affordable health care coverage to contact INFB, either through their regional managers or by calling INFB directly at 317-692-7834,” she said.

Even more important, Hall said, is for members to talk to their legislators and let them know how important this opportunity is for farmers and other small-business owners, their families, both now and in the future, and entrepreneurs who are growing the rural economy.

Each county is asked to come to the Statehouse at least once during the session. In addition to regular visits, INFB is hosting special advocacy days Feb. 17-19. Anyone who is interested in either of these opportunities should contact his or her regional manager.

“I’m excited about this legislative initiative,” Hall said. “It’s innovative and, at the end of the day, it’s going to improve the quality of life of our members.”