Support Agricultural Education in Maryland, Pass HB972

Maryland’s agricultural education programs are struggling. For years, vital programs like FFA and the Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation (MAEF) have relied on funding from unclaimed horse racing tickets. But as sports betting moves online, much of that funding is vanishing.

Maryland Farm Bureau is proud to support HB0972 (The Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Act) to provide a permanent solution by establishing a dedicated fund to ensure these programs can continue into the future. It's incumbent upon our state to bring up these agriculturally-minded students to lead the next generation of Maryland's food supply and environmental sustainability.

Please reach out to your Senators and tell them that supporting HB972 is an investment in our kids and our state's economy.

MD2026HB 972

Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Fund - Establishment ( Charles J. Otto Agricultural Education Promise Act)

Last Action

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 163

executive • Apr 28, 2026

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Text - Chapter - Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Fund - Establishment ( Charles J. Otto Agricultural Education Promise Act)

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Your Message to the legislators

Dear (name and title inserted automatically),

As a member of the Maryland Farm Bureau and a supporter of local agriculture, I am writing to strongly urge your support for House Bill 972, also known as the Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Act. This legislation is vital to ensuring the survival of agricultural education and youth development programs like 4-H, FFA, and the Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation.

For years, these programs have relied on funding from unclaimed horse racing tickets. However, with the rapid shift toward digital sports betting, that traditional revenue source has largely disappeared. This has left our agricultural fairs and youth programs with a massive funding shortfall that threatens the future of these organizations. House Bill 972 provides a stable and dedicated funding solution by establishing the Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Fund.

Ensuring the continued success of agricultural education is essential for the broader agricultural industry and our local economies. These programs foster a pipeline of skilled, agriculturally-minded students who will drive future innovation and sustainability in Maryland’s largest commercial industry. Furthermore, the leadership and teamwork skills taught through FFA and 4-H prepare students to be successful citizens regardless of the career path they ultimately choose.

Supporting House Bill 972 is not just about preserving a long-standing tradition; it is a necessary investment in the next generation of Marylanders and our state's economic security. I respectfully ask for your support on this bill as it crosses over into the Senate.

Thank you for your time and for your continued service to our state.

Sincerely,