ANNAPOLIS, MD — Yesterday, February 4, 2026, members of the Maryland Farm Bureau (MDFB) gathered in Annapolis to defend their livelihoods at the annual "Day in Annapolis". The event provided a vital platform for farmers to bring boots-on-the-ground perspectives directly to elected officials during a critical legislative session.

Throughout the day, MDFB members engaged in discussions with legislators to address policies that directly impact the viability of Maryland’s farms. A primary focus was standing firm against unrealistic pesticide bans and burdensome regulations that threaten to undermine proven safety standards and operational efficiency.

Maryland Farm Bureau members pose with Senator Dawn Gile and Delegate LaToya Nkongolo from Anne Arundel County

“This is why the Maryland Farm Bureau exists: to ensure that when policy is made, the voice of the farmer is not going unheard,” said Tyler Hough, MDFB Director of Government Relations. “Thank you to all of the legislators who took the time to discuss policy with their farming constituents today.”

Key Legislative Priorities Addressed Included:

• Opposing Unrealistic Bans: MDFB strongly opposed HB91, which seeks to prohibit the use of certain neonicotinoid pesticides. Farmers emphasized that these tools are safe, highly regulated, and essential for protecting crops, turf, and bay friendly ag practices.
• Cutting Red Tape: Members advocated for HB395, which would repeal burdensome requirements for CAFO discharge permits before construction can begin, allowing for necessary farm modernization.
• Smart Energy & Infrastructure: The Bureau supported HB460 to protect farmland and local zoning laws by reducing the percentage of "Priority Preservation Acreage" that can be converted to solar energy projects.
• Expanding Value-Added Opportunities: To keep Maryland farms profitable, MDFB voiced support for HB535, which increases the revenue threshold for cottage food businesses, and HB272, establishing a more practical licensing framework for on-farm food service.

MDFB Member Dave Burrier from Frederick County discusses policy with Delegate Jesse Pippy

With 2026 being an election year in Maryland, MDFB also highlighted its Political Action Committee. With an endorsed candidate success rate of over 90% in the 2022 election cycle, the MDFB PAC remains committed to electing ag-friendly leaders who understand the unique challenges of the industry.

For more information on the Maryland Farm Bureau’s legislative agenda, visit marylandfb.org.

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