COLUMBUS, OHIO — The Ohio Senate has passed House Bill 162, known as the Agriculture Appreciation Act, which officially recognizes several federal agriculture observances in state law, including FFA Week, 4-H Week, Agriculture Day, and Farmer’s Day. The legislation received strong support from State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster).
“Agriculture is the backbone of our state’s history and economy,” Schaffer said. “Ohio’s farmers and future farmers deserve acknowledgment for their contributions to our communities and country. This legislation provides them that recognition in state law.”
In addition to these observances, the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, chaired by Schaffer, introduced a designation for “Ohio Soil Health Week” to take place during the second week of November. The new week honors the late David Brandt, a soil pioneer and advocate, and aims to highlight the critical role of soil health in sustainable agriculture.
The committee also approved an amendment allowing counties to hire more than one deputy apiarist (beekeeper) to enhance enforcement and management in the beekeeping sector.
“These additions will help educate Ohioans about agriculture while enabling our counties to attract the best talent to enforce laws and support agricultural initiatives,” Schaffer added.
The legislation now returns to the Ohio House for a concurrence vote.
