The resolution introduced on January 30, 2026, designates February 2, 2026, as Future Farmers of America (FFA) Day at the Legislature. It highlights the historical significance of the FFA, tracing its roots back to the Smith-Hughes Act of 1917, which funded vocational agriculture education in high schools. The FFA was established in 1928, evolving from the Future Farmers of Virginia, and has since grown to encompass chapters from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The organization serves middle, high school, and college students interested in agriculture, providing them with opportunities to develop leadership skills and showcase their agricultural knowledge through competitions and hands-on learning experiences.
The resolution also notes the FFA's commitment to inclusivity, mentioning its merger with the New Farmers of America in 1965 and the admission of female members in 1969. In 1988, the organization rebranded as The National FFA Organization to reflect the diversity within the agriculture sector. Currently, there are over one million members nationwide, with West Virginia hosting 91 agricultural education programs serving more than 7,489 members. The resolution concludes by directing the Clerk to send a copy of the resolution to the West Virginia Farm Bureau organization.