By Andi Anderson
The Ohio Farm Bureau has voiced strong support for Senate Bill 120 during testimony before the Ohio Senate Finance Committee.
The organization emphasized the need to build a diverse and skilled agricultural workforce, particularly by expanding education opportunities for urban youth.
Senate Bill 120, introduced by Sen. Paula Hicks-Hudson, proposes the creation of the Urban Farmer Youth Initiative Pilot Program. The program would increase awareness of agricultural careers among students ages 6 to 18 in urban areas.
It would also provide financial support for agricultural education programs and clarify code exemptions for certain agricultural structures.
Ohio agriculture is facing a significant workforce challenge. Over the next decade, the state is expected to need 470,000 new employees across food and agribusiness sectors.
Of those positions, about 90,000 will be directly involved in farming. Supporters of the bill believe stronger early education and career awareness can help close this gap.
“This bill will help fill the gap between learning about agriculture and making it a potential career choice. By creating spaces and experiences for sustained, hands-on learning, Ohio can help continue to foster the next generation of critical employees and leaders in the food and ag industry,” said Michael Bailey, Ohio Farm Bureau senior vice president of operations and partnerships.
The Ohio Farm Bureau has long prioritized agricultural literacy and workforce development. Its programs include agricultural literacy initiatives, ExploreAg experiences, and Young Ag Professionals engagement.
Leaders say Senate Bill 120 would build these efforts by creating more consistent learning opportunities and strengthening the pathway from classroom education to long-term agricultural careers.
“Ohio agriculture depends on a strong pipeline of young people who understand that food production is an evolving industry and a meaningful and viable career path. While Ohio Farm Bureau helps demonstrate the many options of agricultural careers…we know students need continuous opportunities to learn about agriculture and the career fields available to them,” Bailey stated.
Supporters believe the legislation will connect more urban students to agriculture, expand career exploration, and help ensure a stable workforce for Ohio’s food and farming industries in the future.
Photo Credit: ohio-farm-bureau
Categories: Ohio, Education