Assembly adopts HR 19 recognizing California Agriculture Day

The California State Assembly on March 17, 2025, adopted House Resolution 19 designating March 19 as California Agriculture Day to honor farmers, ranchers and farm workers across the state.

The resolution, introduced by Assemblymember Devon Soria, noted California's role as the nation's leading agricultural exporter and cited figures presented on the floor: $23.6 billion in agricultural exports (reported February 2022) and roughly $13 billion in annual crop production from Fresno, Merced and Madera counties combined. "Today, let's honor the dedication and hard work of those in the agricultural sector who feed the nation and sustain our own communities," Soria said before asking for the vote.

Members who represent agricultural districts spoke in support. Assemblymember Hadwick described farming as "a life that is hard work" and invited colleagues to visit Ag Day events on the Capitol lawn. Assemblymember Tongipa said the Central Valley remains the state’s "bread basket," citing acreage and crop diversity in Fresno County. Assemblymember Jeff Gonzales and Assemblymember Castillo also voiced support, each emphasizing local production and the labor contributions that sustain California agriculture.

The clerk opened a roll for co-authors; 65 members were added as co-authors without objection. The resolution was then adopted by voice vote.

The Assembly also handled the daily file on the floor before and after debate on HR 19; the resolution’s passage was a recognition and did not change state law or appropriate funds. Members repeatedly emphasized support for both agricultural production and environmental protections in their remarks. Assemblymember Soria closed by asking members to join the Ag Day events on March 19.

Votes and formal motions related to HR 19 were recorded on the floor as co-author additions and the adoption of the resolution by voice vote. No roll-call tally of final passage was recorded in the transcript.