State Rep. Don Jones | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Don Jones | The Ohio House of Representatives
The Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Bill 683, which aims to address the severe drought conditions that have recently affected the state. The bill, sponsored by State Representative Don Jones (R-Freeport), allocates $10 million to the Department of Agriculture for drought mitigation efforts. This funding will be distributed through local Soil and Water districts.
"We are only in the beginning stages of drought recovery efforts, and it’s important to rally together and support our farmers," stated Jones. "By passing this bill now, we can provide immediate relief to farmers, supporting them as they prepare to head into the winter months."
In addition to this funding, the legislation includes a $500,000 appropriation from the Controlling Board Emergency Purposes Fund for the Ohio State College of Food, Agriculture and Environmental Science. This allocation is intended for their Farm Financial Management and Policy Institute to hire a director who will assist farmers with challenges following the drought.
House Bill 683 will now proceed to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.