The bill introduced by Senator Hicks-Hudson establishes the Farming and Workforce Development Program aimed at providing training for individuals aged 16 to 35 who are residents of Ohio, preparing them for seasonal crop farming employment. The program will be implemented through the county offices of the Ohio State University Extension and Central State University Extension, which will develop guidelines for the application process and training coursework. Notably, individuals with felony convictions are eligible to participate in the program as long as they meet the age and residency criteria.

Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation of $500,000 from the General Revenue Fund to support the activities of the Farming and Workforce Development Program. This funding is designated for the fiscal year 2025 and is intended to supplement any existing appropriations for that period. The Director of Budget and Management is tasked with establishing accounts for the appropriations and ensuring that expenditures comply with the relevant provisions of H.B. 96 of the 136th General Assembly.