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Bill

HB 972

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

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Adams and 50 co-sponsors

Maryland establishes dedicated state fund to provide stable educational financing for agricultural programs and fairs statewide.

Returned Passed
0
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Bill Summary · HB 972

Legislative bill overview

HB 972 establishes the Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Fund, a dedicated funding mechanism to support agricultural education and fair programs across the state. The bill allocates state resources to enhance agricultural learning opportunities and promote fair-related educational initiatives.

Why is this important

Agricultural education programs face consistent funding challenges, yet they provide critical workforce development for Maryland's farming sector and promote food system literacy. Dedicated funding through a promise fund ensures stable, predictable resources for rural communities and schools to maintain these programs rather than relying on annual discretionary appropriations.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source uncertainty – The bill's specific revenue mechanism (general fund, tax allocation, or fee-based) will determine fiscal impact and whether it diverts resources from other state priorities
  • Geographic equity concerns – Questions about whether fund distribution ensures urban/suburban areas with limited agricultural presence still benefit or whether resources concentrate in rural counties
  • Definition and scope – Ambiguity about what qualifies as "agricultural education" and "fair programs" could lead to disputes over eligible recipients and project types

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

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