Bill to make wheat Oklahoma's official state crop passes legislature

Bill Designating Wheat as Official State Crop Heads to Governor’s Desk

OKLAHOMA CITY (April 29th) – The Oklahoma House of Representatives voted unanimously in favor of Senate Bill 2159 today to designate wheat as the State Crop of the State of Oklahoma. Having now cleared both chambers with unanimous support, the bill now advances to the governor’s desk for final review.

The bill, by Senator Roland Pederson, R-Burlington, was passed in the House Wednesday, coinciding with Ag Day at the Capitol festivities.

“Seeing this bill pass on Ag Day is incredibly meaningful as we celebrated one of Oklahoma’s most vital industries,” Pederson said. “Wheat is a key part of our state’s agricultural economy and plays a big role in supporting our rural communities. On a day dedicated to agriculture, this designation underscores the importance of wheat and the producers behind its success across the state.”

Oklahoma ranks second in the United States in annual winter wheat production and third overall in total wheat bushels harvested each year, with most of that production concentrated in the central and western parts of the state.

“Harvesting wheat myself, I know the amount of work put in by producers to build Oklahoma’s wheat industry into one that is strong and nationally recognized,” Pederson added. “I extend immense gratitude to my colleagues in both the Senate and House for unanimously advancing this measure, putting it one step closer to becoming law and formally recognizing the hard work, dedication, and legacy of wheat farmers across our state.”

SB 2159 was requested by and crafted in collaboration with the Burlington FFA Chapter. Pederson worked closely with chapter members and their advisor to shape the legislation honoring Oklahoma wheat farmers, whose efforts have contributed to the state’s national reputation for premier wheat production and research.

Pederson also noted the significance of naming wheat the state crop for his district. Senate District 19 includes Enid, known as the "Wheat Capital of the United States," and other northwest Oklahoma communities that boast significant grain storage capacity.

Rep. Dillon Travis, R-Maramec, carried the bill in the House of Representatives, securing the final legislative approval needed to send the measure to the governor’s desk.

Following the governor’s approval, SB 2159 will take effect Nov. 1.