Hicks-Hudson Applauds Passage of Legislation to Establish Urban Farmer Youth Initiative Pilot Program

Today, state Senator Paula Hicks-Hudson (D-Toledo) celebrated the passage of Senate Bill 120 on the Senate floor, legislation to codify the Urban Farmer Youth Initiative Program into law.

“Today’s passage of Senate Bill 120 is an important step toward investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders and expanding opportunities for young people in our urban communities,” said Hicks-Hudson. “Urban agriculture strengthens neighborhoods by increasing access to fresh produce, creating green spaces, promoting sustainability, and providing hands-on educational opportunities. By supporting programs like the Urban Farmer Youth Initiative, we can empower young Ohioans with the knowledge and resources they need while building healthier, more resilient communities for the future 

Senate Bill 120 builds on the work of Senate Bill 111, which was included in the 135th General Assembly’s Operating Budget. The legislation requires the Chancellor of Higher Education, in collaboration with The Ohio State University and Central State University cooperative extension services, to establish the Urban Farmer Youth Initiative Pilot Program. The program will provide young people ages six to eighteen living in urban areas with relevant programming, resources, and support related to farming and agriculture.

The bill also supports urban agriculture by exempting temporary greenhouses from statutes governing the construction and condition of buildings and related rules adopted by the Board of Building Standards. Additionally, Senate Bill 120 codifies an existing practice allowing noncontiguous land to be valued at its current agricultural use value (CAUV) without meeting an income threshold if the total acreage of all parcels used in a single agricultural operation within the same county equals at least 10 acres.

Senate Bill 120 now heads to the Ohio House for consideration.