By Tyler Hough, Director of Government Relations for Maryland Farm Bureau

Today marks the first day of the 2025 Maryland General Assembly, which will run through early April. This 90-day session is when legislators from across the state convene in Annapolis to introduce, amend, and debate bills. As the largest agricultural trade organization in the state, Maryland Farm Bureau will be there all session long to advocate for our farmers in these discussions.

Each year, thousands of bills are filed, but only a fraction of those will make it to the floor of the state house. Most bills concerning agriculture are likely to go through either the House of Delegates Environment and Transportation Committee (E&T) or the Senate’s Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee (EEE). It’s helpful to follow the proceedings of these committees to understand what bills may come to the floor.

At the 2024 Maryland Farm Bureau Convention, our members voted on their top policy priorities for the upcoming year. Those priorities were private property rights, solar energy siting, and agricultural education. While we will be paying attention to any bills that could affect agriculture, we will be sure to notify and inform our members if any bills move relating to those areas.

Our staff and relevant stakeholders will be in Annapolis advocating for our farmers. But there are ways you can help, too! First, find out who represents you in the State House. Stay in regular communication with your representatives and urge them to prioritize our farms in their policy-making decisions.

Next, consider attending our Day in Annapolis on Wednesday, February 5th. It’s a great opportunity to gather with fellow farmers and speak directly with legislators on the issues that matter most to you.

Lastly, stay up-to-date with our communications including our legislative newsletter: the Hotline, our weekly E-Newsletter, social media pages, and more. Watch out for periodic action alerts on our website, where you can message your legislators with just one click. As always, stay in touch with your county Farm Bureau and local leadership, too.

As you know, farmers are busy and they can’t always be monitoring legal proceedings and bill processes. But that’s where your membership in the Maryland Farm Bureau comes in! Our team, bolstered by our grassroots members, are working hard to support our state’s agricultural industry. Rest assured, while you’re on the farm working hard to feed and fuel our communities, we are engaged in the policy discussions that will let you keep farming.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

With gratitude,

Tyler Hough