Two weeks ago, we wrote about the staggering rates of American farmer suicide, and the piece that finally brought attention to the epidemic.

This week, we are happy to report House Bill 2671 - which establishes a pilot program for free suicide prevention for employees of the agriculture industry - unanimously passed the House of Representatives in Washington state.

Fortunately, Washington state legislators aren't the only ones taking action to prevent more farmer suicides. Dairy co-op Agri-Mark appears to be attempting to redeem itself after its role in a national price-fixing scheme by encouraging its members to take advantage of mental health programs.

As milk prices continue to drop for the third year in a row and New England winters continue to challenge the region's agricultural operations, Agri-Mark sent a letter to its New England members stating the co-op is in the process of creating a "free, comprehensive member assistance program," and listed resources available to farmers in the meantime. The resources include Farm Net in New York, Farm First in Vermont, the Maine crisis hotline, and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

There is no additional information yet on when Agri-Mark's program will be up and running, or what services it will offer.

Read More:

• Dairy Co-Op Sends Struggling Farmers Mental Health Info (US News)
• Routine Mailing To Dairy Farmers Included A Rare Note: Suicide Hotline Info (Vermont Public Radio)