Rep. Cockley Celebrates Passage of HB 65, Designating First Full Week of August as National Farmers Market Week

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Christine Cockley (D-Columbus) today is pleased to announce the passage of House Bill (HB) 65 , also known as The Agriculture Appreciation Act. The bill designates the first full week of August as “National Farmers Market Week” in Ohio. This designation, which was made possible through an amendment proposed by Rep. Cockley, underscores the vital role farmers' markets play in supporting local economies and promoting healthy communities.

“Ohio’s farmers are key in our state’s agricultural success, and this bill is an important step in honoring them and recognizing the significant contributions they make to our communities,” said Rep. Cockley. “I am grateful to my colleagues for their support of my amendment to this bill. These recognitions will not only honor Ohio’s agricultural workforce but also provide a greater public understanding of the importance of local farming.”

In addition to establishing National Farmers Market Week in Ohio, HB 65 also designates several important weeks and days to raise awareness and celebrate Ohio's agricultural heritage. These include:

• The first week of October as “Ohio Stormwater Awareness Week”;
• March 21 as “Agriculture Day”;
• The week beginning on the Saturday before the last Saturday of each February through the last Saturday in February as “FFA Week”;
  October 12 as “Farmer’s Day”;
• The week ending with the second Saturday of March as “4-H Week”; and
• The second full week of November as “Ohio Soil Health Week,” to celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of soil health to Ohio agriculture and in honor of the birthday of soil pioneer and advocate David Brandt.

The bill, which passed with an overwhelming 95 votes, now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.