News

The Ohio Soybean Association (OSA), the advocacy voice for Ohio soybean farmers, announced this week its 2026 state policy priorities. Developed annually by farmer leaders, these priorities guide OSA’s advocacy efforts at the Statehouse and help ensure Ohio soybean farmers’ voices are heard in key policy discussions.

“Establishing clear priorities allows us to advocate effectively for policies that support farm profitability, economic growth and long-term sustainability for Ohio agriculture,” said Bennett Musselman, OSA president and Pickaway County farmer. “We look forward to working with state leaders, policymakers and industry partners to advance these goals in 2026.”

OSA’s 2026 policy priorities reflect both emerging opportunities and ongoing challenges facing soybean farmers. Demand for soy-based renewable fuels and products continues to grow, creating significant economic development potential for Ohio. At the same time, farmers are navigating rising input costs, regulatory pressures and infrastructure needs that directly impact their operations.

Highlights of OSA’s 2026 policy priorities include:

• Promoting renewable fuels, the bioeconomy and biomanufacturing using soy-based products
• Supporting evidence-based nutrition policy and the inclusion of soy in food
• Addressing rising input costs and reducing unnecessary regulation
• Expanding domestic and international trade opportunities for Ohio soybeans
• Investing in transportation and infrastructure critical to agricultural success
• Supporting animal agriculture, youth programs such as 4-H and FFA, and smart growth policies that protect farmland

Soybeans remain Ohio’s number one agricultural export, and OSA will continue advocating for policies that strengthen market access, improve infrastructure and position Ohio as a leader in renewable fuels, biomanufacturing and agricultural innovation.

The full list of OSA’s 2026 policy priorities is available at http://www.soyohio.org/association/policy-legislation.