By Jamie Martin
Senators Jack Reed and Jim Justice introduce the Strengthening Local Food Security (SLFS) Act of 2025, aiming to support small farmers and increase access to fresh food for families.
The bill proposes USDA partnerships with states and tribal governments to buy food from local producers. This food would be used in school nutrition and community food programs, giving farmers more markets and helping families get healthy meals.
The SLFS Act especially supports beginning, underserved, and veteran farmers, along with fishers and ranchers, by offering reliable demand for their products. This support helps farmers invest in better equipment and grow their operations.
A key part of the bill includes technical assistance for farmers, helping them meet food safety rules, prepare for larger markets, and improve production. These tools make it easier for farmers to succeed while keeping food safe.
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition praises the bill, saying it brings economic opportunity and healthy food together through smart public programs.
With this bill, leaders work together to make farming stronger and food more available. It encourages local food growth and better community health—one meal and one farm at a time.
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Categories: National