Legislation to allow the South Dakota Farm Bureau to offer a health care coverage option to its members cleared a State Senate Committee late last week. South Dakota Farm Bureau Lobbyist Mike Held says the measure got overwhelming support in the committee.

He says they were able to answer opponents objections and ensured lawmakers their program will be financially solvent.

Held says the idea for the legislation came about because of the high cost of health care faced by many of South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers.

Held says the bill is expected to be heard on the Senate floor this week.