The Farm Bill is negotiated every five years and is a collection of Congressional policies. This includes legislation that not only defines SNAP eligibility and provides resources for programs like Double Up Food Bucks, but also addresses a wide range of policies, including regulations and incentives for agricultural practices across the country.
farm bill, The law, officially known as the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, is also important for health care, especially preventive health. But starting in 2023, it threatens two critical programs that support a healthy climate and communities: low-income supplemental funds like SNAP and conservation funds that ensure an affordable and nutritious food system. As such, it is in the process of controversial renegotiation. Both provisions are essential to protect human health, as stated in a recent letter signed by 80 health organizations, including the American Medical Association.
On the surface, SNAP provides the most obvious example of this connection by providing meals to approximately 13% of Michigan’s population. Without SNAP, many would struggle to get enough nutrition to stay healthy. Plus, programs like Double Up Food Bucks encourage affordable and healthy choices. Evidence shows that families participating in SNAP eat 26% more fruits and vegetables than families not participating.
Although less obvious, there is a link between agricultural costs and health through the environment. As healthcare providers, we have seen and will continue to see patients affected by climate change. This Farm Bill is a federal effort to build a more sustainable and healthier food system by promoting more regenerative agricultural practices that mitigate the devastating effects of climate change and protect soil health. Make funds available. Healthy soil produces more nutritious food.
Additionally, healthy land and soil also create a healthier water cycle and stronger farmland to feed future generations. These programs increase climate resilience, enhance native species habitat, reduce the risk of flooding, and eliminate toxic substances that can contaminate groundwater sources used for drinking water in many rural areas. Protects against runoff water containing nitrogen and phosphorus. Without continued investment, these programs cannot exist.
As a lifelong Michigan resident, water quality is always top of mind. Being the nation’s largest ambassador for freshwater supplies means we must continue to protect our communities from further damage from climate change. Addressing threats to our clean water, air, and soil is and will continue to be a critical component of preventing community health.
The Farm Bill combines efforts to protect the climate with efforts to make affordable, nutritious food available to all people. Both of these items have the power to strengthen our most under-resourced communities and specifically promote their health and well-being. To protect the health of all Michiganders now and in the future, contact your legislators today to express your support for both provisions in the final version of the Farm Bill.
