Efforts to bring new healthcare coverage for Alabama farmers sparks debate

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — A bill in the legislature would allow the Alabama Farmers Federation to offer new healthcare coverage to farmers. Some said it will help them make ends meet, while others disagree.

“Think about it like automobiles or something,” said Shep Morris, farmer in Macon County. “You know, I mean, everybody likes to drive a Cadillac. But, you need a few Chevrolets around for the rest of us, you know?”

Morris explained insurance rates are hurting some farmers, especially those just starting out. He said more healthcare options would help with that.

“Most companies start off with a small entrepreneur somewhere. And, if you snuff that out with high insurance rates, that hurts the whole country long term,” said Morris.

That’s why Rep. David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook) wants to offer health benefits through Alfa. Faulkner explained some farmers make too much to receive subsidies, but too little to afford health insurance.

“Why in the world, with as much as agriculture and our farmers federation means to Alabama, would we not let this be an option?” he said. “Let this be an option for their members.”

But, Jane Adams with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network said the bill is discriminatory towards people with pre-existing conditions, like cancer or asthma. She explained there is no consumer protection in the bill.

“Unfortunately, the evidence just doesn’t match up on this situation with the Alfa bill. We know that junk health insurance often leads to more medical debt and less access to care,” said Adams.

Alfa said that’s not true. Preston Roberts with the federation said the plans would cover things like doctor’s visits, preventative care, and prescriptions.

“Pre-existing conditions in a lot of cases will be covered after a short waiting period,” he explained. “But, to say that they will be excluded is just not true. And, the benefits of these plans is that you can enroll at any time.”

The plans would not be regulated like other health insurance companies. Rep. Faulkner said Alfa would not have to accept everyone who applies for the plans under the law. But, he said the plans aren’t for everyone, and there are already other options out there. Faulkner said it would help save money for some.

“For the members of the farmer’s federation, it’s an option for them. It’s not a ‘be all solution’ for everybody,” explained Faulkner. “And, it’s not gonna save everybody.”

The effort still has to be passed through both chambers before it’s signed into law. It will go up for a vote next in the Health committee in the House tomorrow.