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SB 563

Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Fund - Establishment (Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Act)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jack Bailey and 4 co-sponsors

Maryland establishes dedicated fund to support agricultural education programs and county fairs, strengthening rural workforce development and student engagement in farming.

Hearing 2/18 at 1:00 p.m. (Education, Energy, and the Environment)
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Bill Summary · SB 563

Legislative bill overview

SB 563 establishes the Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Fund, a dedicated funding mechanism to support agricultural education programs and fair-related educational initiatives across the state. The bill allocates resources to strengthen agricultural literacy and hands-on learning opportunities for Maryland students, particularly through county fairs and school-based agricultural programs.

Why is this important

Agricultural education directly impacts workforce development in Maryland's farming sector, which faces significant labor and succession challenges. By creating a dedicated fund, the bill aims to ensure consistent, predictable support for programs that connect students to agricultural careers and rural community engagement, potentially addressing both economic and educational equity gaps between urban and rural areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source unclear: The bill's mechanism for financing the fund is not specified in available summaries, raising questions about whether new revenue will be generated or existing education funds redirected
  • Geographic equity concerns: Rural counties with established fairs may benefit disproportionately compared to urban areas with limited agricultural infrastructure
  • Accountability measures: Details on how fund performance will be measured and whether accountability metrics exist for recipient programs remain undefined in the summary

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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