Bill > B26-0109

This bill establishes a comprehensive farmers market support program within the District of Columbia's Department of Health to enhance local food access and support agricultural vendors. The program will provide technical assistance to farmers markets, farm stands, and mobile markets, helping them navigate licensing and permitting processes, and create a centralized application system to streamline these requirements. A key component is the creation of a grant program that will provide at least $250,000 annually to support markets located in low food access areas, defined as census tracts where over 20% of households earn 185% or less of the federal poverty line and where a significant portion of residents live more than 0.5 miles from a grocery store. The program will also create an online map of market locations, conduct marketing and promotional activities, and offer additional support such as helping vendors accept nutrition benefits and procure technological equipment. The bill further mandates that the Mayor waive licensing and permitting fees for markets in low food access areas and establishes clear definitions for terms like "farmers market," "farm stand," and "mobile market." By focusing on these initiatives, the bill aims to improve food accessibility, support local farmers and producers, and enhance the infrastructure of farmers markets throughout the District of Columbia.

Health and Social Services

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0109