Good afternoon,

Happy (almost) Thanksgiving! Whether you're serving veggies and turkeys from your farmers' market, jogging for a cause in a turkey trot, or donating to a local food bank, now is the perfect time to give thanks to the farmers that feed us and the communities that support us.

If you're driving, flying, or prepping your favorite stuffing tomorrow, we'll have a new episode of the Hot Dish to help you pass the time. Tune in to hear more about what Thanksgiving looks like at America's farms, food banks, and even from some of OCP's board members.


FARM BILL EXTENDED

  • Everyone breathed a sigh of relief when the federal government managed to avoid a shutdown for the third time this year and extended the Farm Bill through September 2024. But, as OCP founder and former Senator Heidi Heitkamp pointed out, Congress does not deserve a round of applause for doing the bare minimum and merely restarting the countdown.
     
  • The Ag-FDA funding bill must be passed by January 19. While the Senate passed its version of the bill, the House's version is hung up over extremist Republicans' amendment that bans mailing mifepristone, the abortion medication.
     
  • Kicking the can down the road doesn't solve the challenges rural America faces now. Congress must take real action to first pass an agriculture appropriations bill, and act early in the new year to pass a new Farm Bill.
     
  • After tumult brought on by technological change, supply chain shortages, and regional inequities, rural America deserves policies that reflect today's physical and economic environment. OCP proposed a series of priorities for the new Farm Bill that secures the farming foundation, grows the rural economy, and make it easier to live and succeed in rural America. Read more here.

SHARE YOUR RURAL HEALTH CARE STORY

Rural America faces unique health care challenges. One Country wants to raise awareness with policymakers in Washington, DC, through first person testimonials by rural residents. Tell us your story and help us improve health care access in rural America. And, if you hear any at the Thanksgiving table, please share the link.

REMINDER: MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR 2024 COVERAGE

Seniors and families, NOW is the time to ensure your 2024 health care needs will be covered by selecting the plan that best fits your needs. Medicare Open Enrollment lasts until December 7. Explore your coverage options here.

   In Case You Missed It
 
Each week, this newsletter highlights what's going on in rural states, counties, communities, and what One Country Project is up to around the country. If you value this content, please consider donating to One Country Project. Your contribution supports our efforts to connect with rural voters and to promote greater opportunities for rural communities.
 
 

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Be sure to follow the One Country Project on Twitter and Facebook, and check out The Hot Dish podcast.