Placer County Pushes for Federal Funding to Support Farmer Mental Health

National Association of Counties resolution calls for expanded services and programs to address crisis in rural communities

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Placer County Supervisor Shanti Landon has sponsored a resolution with the National Association of Counties to advocate for more federal support and funding for mental health services catered to farmers and ranchers. The resolution aims to expand access to crisis hotlines, counseling, peer support networks, and ensure rural areas receive their fair share of mental health resources, as data shows suicide rates are alarmingly high in the agriculture industry.

Why it matters

Farmers and ranchers are often isolated and face immense financial pressures, leading to high rates of mental health struggles and suicide. This resolution seeks to destigmatize the issue and direct critical resources to support the backbone of America's food system.

The details

The resolution calls for expanded funding for farm stress programs, including crisis hotlines, counseling services, peer support networks, and ensuring rural communities aren't left behind when mental health dollars are distributed. It would also give county leaders a seat at the table when federal farm stress programs are developed and funded. North Auburn rancher Joe Fischer says the financial pressures of farming, from loans to rising input costs, can be overwhelming with no guarantee of a paycheck.

  • The resolution passed unanimously through the Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee of the National Association of Counties this week.
  • It now heads to the group's annual conference in July, where it could be formally adopted.

The players

Shanti Landon

Placer County Supervisor who sponsored the resolution to advocate for more federal support for rural mental health services.

Joe Fischer

A North Auburn rancher who says the financial pressures of farming can be overwhelming, leading to too many lost friends through suicide.

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What they’re saying

“These people really are the unsung heroes of our country. They are the backbone. If you meet a farmer, you know, because they are some of the most resilient people I've met in my life.”

— Shanti Landon, Placer County Supervisor (cbsnews.com)

“We're still doing the work. Ag is still doing the work. But you may not get paid at the end of the day.”

— Joe Fischer, North Auburn Rancher (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The resolution now heads to the National Association of Counties' annual conference in July, where it could be formally adopted.

The takeaway

This resolution highlights the critical need to support the mental health of farmers and ranchers, who face immense financial pressures and isolation, leading to alarmingly high suicide rates in the agriculture industry. By expanding access to crisis services and giving rural communities a voice, this effort aims to destigmatize the issue and direct vital resources to the backbone of America's food system.