RELATING TO SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 22 co-sponsors

Bill HB 967 creates a working group and coordination team to enhance sustainable food systems, improving food security and health for farmers, consumers, and communities.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

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Purpose and Intent

Bill HB 967 aims to enhance the sustainability of food systems within the state. It seeks to establish a coordinated approach to food systems through the creation of an Interagency Food Systems Working Group and a Statewide Interagency Food Systems Coordination Team. The bill emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in food production, distribution, and consumption, ultimately aiming to improve food security and environmental health.

Key Provisions

Establishment of Working Groups: The bill proposes the formation of an Interagency Food Systems Working Group, which will be responsible for developing strategies to promote sustainable food systems across various state agencies.

Coordination Team: A Statewide Interagency Food Systems Coordination Team will be created to facilitate collaboration among different stakeholders involved in food systems, including government agencies, non-profits, and community organizations.

Appropriations: The bill includes provisions for appropriating funds to support the activities of the working group and coordination team, although specific dollar amounts have not been detailed in the current version.

Reporting Requirements: The bill mandates regular reports on the progress and effectiveness of the initiatives undertaken by the working group and coordination team, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Affected Parties

State Agencies: Various state departments, particularly the Department of Agriculture (DOA), will be directly involved in implementing the provisions of the bill.

Farmers and Producers: Local farmers and food producers may benefit from enhanced support and resources aimed at sustainable practices.

Consumers: The general public will likely experience improved access to sustainable food options, contributing to better food security and health outcomes.

Community Organizations: Non-profits and community groups focused on food systems and sustainability will have a role in the collaborative efforts outlined in the bill.

Procedural Timeline

Introduced: January 21, 2025

First Reading: January 23, 2025

Committee Hearings: The bill was scheduled for a hearing on February 5, 2025, and subsequently recommended for passage with amendments by the Agriculture Committee on February 7, 2025.

Second Reading: Passed on February 11, 2025, with amendments and referred to the Finance Committee (FIN) for further consideration.

Related Legislation

SB 1186: This bill serves as a companion to HB 967, indicating a parallel legislative effort in the Senate to address similar issues related to sustainable food systems.

In summary, HB 967 represents a significant legislative effort to promote sustainable food systems through interagency collaboration and strategic planning, with the potential to positively impact various stakeholders involved in food production and consumption.

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