North Summit News

Anyone who watched this year's Super Bowl likely saw the commercial featuring Paul Harvey explaining why "God made a farmer." Even if you missed it, the ad has gained significant attention.

Agriculture is Ohio's top industry, playing a crucial role in the state's economy. As of last year, Ohio had nearly 75,000 farms, with almost 90 percent owned by families or individuals. Agriculture not only drives economic growth but also brings together families and friends while connecting them to their history.

Ohio Agriculture Week runs from March 10th to 16th, celebrating an industry that employs one in seven Ohioans. This period serves as a fitting time to honor farmers as they prepare for planting season.

Having been elected to the Ohio House of Representatives, I am honored to be part of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. Agriculture is essential in Northwest Ohio, and I am privileged to represent hardworking people in the 82nd District.

My colleagues on this committee are equally dedicated to supporting farmers and agricultural workers. Many farmers seek loans before each planting season to cover operating costs. During the previous General Assembly session, a bill was introduced that reduced interest rates on loans or credit lines for farmers through banks and other lenders.

This bill updated the Ag-LINK Deposit Program by increasing the maximum loan amount available to farmers from $100,000 to $150,000. It also raised the amount that the State Treasurer can invest in lending institutions from $125 million to $165 million. These changes facilitate greater investment in agriculture-related businesses.

As spring approaches, I expect more bills affecting farming and other sectors strengthening Ohio's economy will be considered by the committee and the House.