When a priority issue is drafted as a bill and passed by the legislature in a form that is consistent with OFBF policy, it is considered a legislative victory.
The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation is truly a grassroots organization. Our members write and approve our policies that dictate the legislative and regulatory efforts of the OFBF staff. The policy development process begins at the county level. Members write proposed policies and approve them at their county annual meetings. From there, the proposed policies are reviewed by the state policy development committee and voted on at the OFBF annual meeting. Federal policies continue on to the American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting.
It is from these policies that state board of trustees decides our legislative priorities for the year. These policies also determine the organization’s position on proposed legislation. When a priority issue is drafted as a bill and passed by the legislature in a form that is consistent with OFBF policy, we consider this a legislative victory.
Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF) effectively lobbied to get language in the state transportation budget that could curb ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) trespassing. Those who trespass on an ATV will face increased penalties and a “3rd strike and you’re out” provision that allows for the confiscation of their vehicle.
Issue 2 is also known as the Clean Ohio Fund. This initiative generates $200 million to preserve farmland and other natural areas and $200 million to redevelop polluted sites. Clean Ohio encourages smart growth policies and funds farmland preservation programs.
Governor Ted Strickland, Ohio Senate President Bill Harris and Ohio House Speaker Jon Husted have spearheaded a successful effort to enact a $1.57 billion jobs stimulus package that aims to create new jobs while laying the foundation for future economic prosperity.
Gov. Ted Strickland finally got his opportunity to sign the highly debated HB 416, which ratifies the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resource Compact. HB 416 passed the House back in February by a vote of 88 - 3. However, the Senate refused to support the legislation until the House passed SJR 8 with the necessary three-fifths majority required for it to appear on the ballot in November. Sponsored by Sen. Tim Grendell, SJR 8 is a proposed constitutional amendment to ensure private water would not be considered "public trust" under the Great Lakes Compact.
It took Congress overriding two vetoes by President Bush, but Congress finally enacted the farm bill into law.
From the courthouse to the statehouse to the U.S. Capitol and in government agencies at all levels, county Farm Bureau public policy action teams cultivate relationships with elected officials and organize Farm Bureau's membership to be effective grassroots advocates.
Advisory teams discuss current issues within their team, write and recommend new policies related to their team's issues and recommend any programming or activities needed related to their team.
AgriPOWER is an elite program that focuses on public policy issues confronting agriculture and the food industry. Limited to 20 participants, the institute helps them develop the skills necessary to become effective leaders and advocates for agriculture.