The bill amends sections of the Revised Code to enhance regulations surrounding temporary greenhouses and building codes, establish the Urban Farmer Youth Initiative Pilot Program, and clarify property tax requirements for agricultural land. It introduces a definition for "temporary greenhouse," which is characterized as a structure covered with transparent or translucent materials for agricultural use, requiring minimal ground preparation and lacking a foundation. Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of "land devoted exclusively to agricultural use" to include non-contiguous tracts as long as they are part of a single operation within the same county, thereby providing greater flexibility for landowners. It also ensures that agritourism activities do not disqualify such land from agricultural use valuation, allowing landowners to benefit from tax savings while engaging in these activities.

Furthermore, the bill establishes the Urban Farmer Youth Initiative Pilot Program, which aims to provide agricultural education and support to urban youth aged six to eighteen, in partnership with the Ohio State University and Central State University Cooperative Extension Services. The program is set to operate in fiscal year 2027 across two to four counties, with up to fifteen percent of the appropriated funds allocated for its establishment. The bill also allows for local partnerships to enhance programming and supports existing agricultural organizations in reaching urban youth. Notably, any gardens or structures created under this initiative will not be subject to height restrictions, and the bill allocates $500,000 from the General Revenue Fund for its implementation.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3781.06, 3781.061, 5713.30
As Reported By Senate Committee: 3781.06, 3781.061, 5713.30
As Passed By Senate: 3781.06, 3781.061, 5713.30