MD HB262

Restructures the Maryland Agricultural Commission membership from 31 members to approximately 32 members, replacing the previous nomination-list system with direct Governor appointments of one representative per industry sector

Adds six new representative categories to the Commission: controlled environmental agriculture, socially disadvantaged farmers, veteran farmers, young farmers, urban and small farmers, and new and beginning farmers

Establishes a new 10-member Committee on Young Farmers designated by the Secretary of Agriculture to replace the abolished 20-member Young Farmers Advisory Board

Committee on Young Farmers members must be under age 45, derive at least 50% of income from farming, and meet quarterly to identify issues and make recommendations to the Commission

Effective October 1, 2025; approved by Governor Wes Moore on April 8, 2025