Designates first full week in August of each year as "Farmers Market Week."

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Fantasia and 1 co-sponsor

Designates the first full week of August as Farmers Market Week in New Jersey to recognize and promote local markets’ economic, health, and community benefits.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee

Purpose and Intent

AJR 171 designates the first full week in August of each year as “Farmers Market Week” in New Jersey. The resolution aims to recognize the important role that farmers markets and locally owned food businesses play in supporting local economies, improving access to fresh and nutritious foods, promoting sustainability, and fostering community education about nutrition, farming, and cooking. The designation also aligns New Jersey’s observance with the national celebration of “National Farmers Market Week.”

Key Provisions

Designated Week: The first full week of August each year is designated as “Farmers Market Week” in the State of New Jersey.

Governor’s Proclamation: The Governor is requested to issue an annual proclamation urging public officials and citizens to observe the week with appropriate activities and programs recognizing the role of farmers markets.

Effective Date: The resolution takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Who/What Is Affected

Statewide Recognition: The designation applies to the entire state of New Jersey, creating an annual observance that aligns with national festivities.

Public Officials and Citizens: Encourages participation and recognition by state and local governments, as well as residents, through proclamations and related activities.

Context and Potential Impact

Economic and Community Benefits: The bill emphasizes that farmers markets support local economies, create jobs, and help circulate more revenue within local communities than some chain competitors.

Health and Access: Highlights that markets improve access to fresh, nutritious, and affordable foods, contributing to public health.

Nutrition Education: Notes opportunities for education on nutrition, cooking, and farming, reflecting broader community outreach goals.

SNAP and Nutrition Programs: While not creating new programs, the resolution references current USDA-supported programs (SNAP, WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, and Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program) as part of the broader context of farmers markets.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Introduction and Referral: Introduced May 4, 2026, and referred to the Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.

Sponsors: Co-sponsors Dawn Fantasia and Alex Sauickie.

Legislative Action: As a joint resolution, it would require passage by both the Senate and General Assembly and then be sent to the Governor for signature or potential veto. The action history does not indicate final passage as of the provided record.

Summary

AJR 171 is a concise, symbolic measure to formally proclaim the first full week of August as Farmers Market Week in New Jersey, urge annual gubernatorial proclamation, and promote recognition of the beneficial roles of farmers markets in health, local economies, and community education. It deliberately aligns state observance with national Week celebrations to underscore the shared importance of local food systems.

Bill