H.B. 669 Summary

• Creates the Healthy Soils Task Force to develop a comprehensive initiative and action plan for improving soil health in Ohio, with membership including the Director of Agriculture, academic experts from Ohio State University and Central State University, farmers, environmental organizations, and farm organizations.

• Task Force must develop an action plan using standards for organic matter, biological activity, biological diversity, and soil structure to assess soil health improvements, including goals, timelines, and resource requirements.

• Task Force shall examine issues related to farmer research and technical assistance, financial incentives for soil health improvement, the contribution of livestock to soil health, and opportunities to leverage federal conservation programs under the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018.

• Task Force must submit its comprehensive action plan and findings to the Governor and relevant legislative committees by December 31, 2022, and shall cease to exist on January 1, 2023.

• Ohio Department of Agriculture shall provide administrative and fiscal support; Task Force members shall be reimbursed for expenses and shall hold their first meeting within 90 days of the bill's effective date.