21Jul

Minnesota Public Health Insurance Option a Win for Farmers

Among a slew of bills passed during the Minnesota 2023 session, the Minnesota public health insurance option (SF 2995) will be the first time many farmers and rural Minnesotans will have access to health insurance, removing a large barrier to healthcare access for rural, low-income and agriculture communities.  Access to affordable healthcare has long been a barrier for rural and farming communities. Many farmers often seek secondary employment in addition to full time farming in…

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14Jul

Illinois takes steps to increase support for Black Farmers

In a step forward for Illinois’ Black Farmers and Growers, the Illinois House passed a resolution (HR0164) declaring April 23rd – 29th  Black Farmers and Growers week. Additionally, they passed HJR6 which creates a commission to study the impact of Uniform Partition of Heirs’ Property laws on Black farmers.  Representative Sonya Harper, a CROP member and longtime champion for Black farmer equity in Illinois championed the bills. Rep. Harper worked with Black farmers, community advocates…

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22May

Right to Repair Wins Big in Colorado

In a win for small farmers everywhere, Colorado passed the nation’s first Right to Repair law (HB23-1011) for farm and agriculture equipment on April 25, allowing farmers to repair their own equipment without being required to go through the manufacturer or a licensed dealer. Colorado State Representative Brianna Titone, an urban legislator and the first transgender legislator in the state, championed the agricultural Right to Repair bill following her successful effort to pass similar legislation…

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17Jan

A Historic Win for Farmworkers in Colorado

In a historic win for farmworkers in Colorado and nationally, SB 87, the Farmworkers’ Bill of Rights passed both chambers of the Colorado legislature just days before the end of session. The bill, championed by lead sponsor Senator Jessie Danielson, is now heading to the Governor’s desk for signing. Colorado’s Farmworkers’ Bill of Rights will attempt to address the historical exclusion of farmworkers from labor laws and protections. Thanks to SB 87, Colorado farm and agriculture…

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