corn harvest

Background: As fuel prices skyrocket across the state,  lawmakers are preparing to return to the Statehouse to vote on the temporary suspension of Ohio’s gas tax. Ohio Farm Bureau President Bill Patterson recently commented on the proposal, noting the short-term relief it could provide ahead of harvest while emphasizing the need for long-term solutions to address rising production costs and continued challenges facing Ohio’s farm families.

“Ohio farmers are navigating a difficult farm economy, and high fuel prices add another major expense when farm margins are already stretched thin. We appreciate state leaders on both sides of the aisle recognizing the urgency of the situation and working to provide relief at the pump for Ohio’s families and businesses,” said Bill Patterson, president of Ohio Farm Bureau.

“A temporary gas tax holiday is a welcome step toward short-term relief, particularly as farm families begin harvest. At the same time, agriculture faces a generational set of economic challenges, and farmers need long-term solutions that address the broader pressures driving up production costs. 

“Global uncertainty in fuel markets also highlights the importance of domestic fuel supplies and the need for policies that support homegrown biofuels, such as year round E-15. Ohio grown and produced biofuels are a win-win, saving consumers money at the pump and increasing demand for Ohio’s farmers. 

“We look forward to continuing to work with our lawmakers on policies that help lower costs, strengthen our farm economy and keep Ohio farms viable.”

This is a statement for use by journalists. Questions should be directed to Ryan Matthews, 614-246-8210 or [email protected]. 

My first recommendation in your journey is to start out with a local farming friend or mentor along with joining an organization like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Greg McGlinch's avatar
Greg McGlinch

Darke County Farm Bureau

We’re just so thankful for the Farm Bureau and the foundation for helping put this together. And of course, the Boyert family for the vision they had with this grant. It’s jumping us forward 10 years. It’s unbelievable.
Nathan and Jill Parriman's avatar
Nathan and Jill Parriman

Clermont County Farm Bureau

I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
Gretchan Francis's avatar
Gretchan Francis

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

It wasn’t until I joined the Wilmington College Collegiate Farm Bureau that I truly saw how my passion could translate into leadership, advocacy and a career.
Wyatt Morrow's avatar
Wyatt Morrow

Clinton County Farm Bureau

The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
Matt Aultman's avatar
Matt Aultman

Darke County Farm Bureau

Through the Select Partner program, we became educated in farm insurance and weren't just selling policies. It became more and more clear why farmers need an advocate like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Chad Ruhl's avatar
Chad Ruhl

Farm manager, CSI Insurance

So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
Mary Smallsreed's avatar
Mary Smallsreed

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

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