WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

AB 804

Relating to: farm to fork grants, farm to school grants, matching funds for the federal farm to school program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Clint Anderson and 38 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill establishes farm-to-school and farm-to-fork grant programs with state matching funds to increase local farm purchases in schools and consumer markets.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 804

Legislative bill overview

AB 804 establishes grant programs in Wisconsin to connect farms directly to schools and consumers through "farm to fork" and "farm to school" initiatives. The bill authorizes rule-making and appropriates state funds, while also providing matching funds to leverage federal farm to school program resources.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses food system resilience, local agriculture support, and child nutrition by creating financial incentives for schools to purchase directly from Wisconsin farms. It could strengthen regional agricultural economies while potentially improving access to fresh, locally-sourced food in school meal programs—a policy goal spanning both economic development and public health communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and appropriation level: Fiscal estimates have been requested multiple times (January and March 2026), suggesting debate over program funding levels and state budget impact remains unresolved
  • Implementation complexity: The rule-making authority granted to state agencies could create regulatory burdens on schools or farms, depending on how stringent requirements become
  • Program effectiveness and sustainability: Questions may arise about whether grant amounts will meaningfully shift school purchasing behavior or whether matching fund requirements create barriers for under-resourced districts

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.