MD SB240

Restructures the Maryland Agricultural Commission membership by reducing representation from some industries (dairy, poultry, nursery, and services to agriculture drop from two members to one each), eliminating the tobacco industry seat, and adding six new seats for controlled environmental agriculture, socially disadvantaged farmers, veteran farmers, young farmers, urban and small farmers, and new and beginning farmers

Replaces the 20-member Young Farmers Advisory Board (appointed by the Governor) with a smaller 10-member Committee on Young Farmers designated by the Secretary of Agriculture in consultation with the Commission's Executive Secretary

Requires Committee on Young Farmers members to be Maryland residents under age 45, derive at least 50% of personal income from farming or agricultural activities, and represent regional and industry diversity

Committee on Young Farmers must meet quarterly, communicate the importance of young and beginning farmers to the public and state government, identify issues affecting young farmers, and make recommendations to the Maryland Agricultural Commission

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