Endorsements Needed for the Local Food & Beginning Farmer Legislation as a Part of the 2018 Farm Bill
It’s not all about taxes in Washington, D.C. The Farm Bill started to move forward and faith-groups are needed to endorse programs and policies that support family farms and local food systems. The Farm Bill will expand the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and more than double its budget. The bill also supports farmers markets, and organic farmers certifying for the first time.The Interfaith Sustainable Food Collaborative has endorsed to bills that will shape the final Farm Bill.
We call on our partners to work with your congregation as well as its national and regional affiliates to endorse these bills during the coming weeks:
The Local FARMS Act: Consumer demand for local and regional food is on the rise and this growing interest in the “farm to fork” pipeline is helping to open new markets and economic opportunities to farmers and food producers across the nation. The Local Food and Regional Market Supply Act (The Local FARMS act) helps communities prosper through farm to fork investments. This legislation supports job creation by improving programs and policies that help grow local and regional food economies. In doing so, it helps family farmers reach new and growing markets and helps consumers access fresh, healthy food. By helping to connect producers and local customers (including individuals, institutions, and others along the farm to fork pipeline), congress can generate wins that equally benefit farmers and eaters, as well as rural and urban communities. Link to learn more.
The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act:This bill supports training, financing and other resources for beginning, immigrant and veteran farmers to help them get established and compete successfully. Link to learn more.
If you want to learn more or are interested in endorsing these bills, contact Steve at [email protected].