(a)

(1) It is declared the intention of the general assembly to establish services for the well being of farmers and their families who are affected by farm credit problems and the financial difficulties currently existing in the agricultural and related business communities.

(2) The general assembly recognizes the economic and emotional stress being imposed on many of the farm owners and their families by the farm credit crisis that has been caused by the weakening of farm incomes coupled with the rising costs of farm operations.

(3) The general assembly finds that there is a need to provide a program for assisting and advising the individuals within the agricultural community who are experiencing stress and economic difficulties or dislocation caused by the current deteriorated market conditions for agricultural products and the resulting loss of farm income. The general assembly finds and declares that preservation of the family owned farms and farm-related businesses are in the interest of the health, safety and general welfare of the state.

(b)

(1) The University of Tennessee, acting through its extension services, is directed to establish a farm credit counseling program to disseminate information to farmers concerning farm credit problems and to provide advice and counseling regarding other financial problems. The University of Tennessee is also directed to develop and provide a program in stress management and family counseling for individuals and families with farms and agricultural related businesses threatened by farm credit and financial problems.

(2) The department of agriculture, and any other department or agency of state government shall assist the University of Tennessee in establishing and providing the programs required by this section.

(3) In the development of the programs, the University of Tennessee is requested to consult with agricultural organizations.

(4) The University of Tennessee shall designate a coordinator of the financial and family counseling program to implement and manage the program.