HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 176

Reps. Neyer, Markkanen, Cavitt, Bohnak, Alexander, DeSana, Schmaltz, BeGole, Borton, Fairbairn, Kuhn, Jenkins-Arno, Schriver, Martin, Woolford, Rigas, Kelly, Kunse, Slagh, Mentzer, Witwer, VanderWall, Breen, Glanville, MacDonell, Miller and Paiz offered the following resolution:

A resolution to declare September 22-26, 2025, as Farm Safety and Health Week in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, In the United States, Michigan is considered one of the most diverse agricultural states, leading the nation in the production of a large variety of crops, including blueberries, dry beans, fresh flowers, pickling cucumbers, and tart cherries; and

Whereas, There were approximately 44,000 farms in the state of Michigan last year. All these farms and their farmers contribute to making agriculture the second-largest influencer in Michigan?s economy; and

Whereas, Agriculture is considered one of the most dangerous industries because the tasks farmers take on day to day are often physically demanding, come with a higher risk of machinery accidents, and could potentially expose them to hazardous chemicals. This is especially true during the busy peak season of autumn; and

Whereas, Since 1944, the third week of September has been recognized as National Farm Safety and Health Week, to promote the health and well-being of those who work in the agricultural sector; and

Whereas, This year?s theme for National Farm Safety and Health Week is ?Avoid the Worst,? focusing on a variety of areas like equipment and rural roadway safety, the importance of farmer?s health and wellness, keeping youth safe on the farm, handling agricultural confined spaces, and the safe operation of ATVs and UTVs in farming; and

Whereas, National Farm Safety and Health Week not only provides an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the crucial and demanding work that Michigan farmers do to put food on our tables, but allows us to pause and refresh ourselves on the various steps we can take to keep our farmers safe; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare September 22-26, 2025, as Farm Safety and Health Week in the state of Michigan.