Panel urges continuation of pilot for equine-assisted therapy for first responders

Senate File 901 continues a pilot program funding an equine-assisted therapy and workforce-readiness program that serves first responders. Senator David Pratt (sponsor) offered and the committee adopted an A1 amendment to conform the bill with budget rules before testimony.

Sally Mixon, founder of Abijah's on the Back (backside services), told the committee the prior appropriation produced a 98 percent success rate in keeping first responders in the workforce or stabilizing them. "Because of the bill that was passed last session, we've had a 98 percent success rate," Mixon said, describing individual outcomes including some participants who were able to avoid self-harm or to return to work.

A current police officer, Nick Jacobson of Lakeville, described personal benefits from the program after military and policing service and credited the program with life changes: "She has made my life so much better as a man, a husband and a father," Jacobson said.

Andrew Duer, representing the Minnesota Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, said Abijah's work on the Canterbury Park backside is valued by the local community and invited committee members to observe the operation firsthand.

Senator Pratt said the amended bill also seeks to add retired first responders and certain dispatch/EMS roles into eligibility so the program can reach people who retire to seek treatment and might later be reintegrated into the workforce. Supporters urged continuation and modest expansion; the committee laid the bill over for possible inclusion.