Bill > SB5722

This bill establishes a new grant program administered by the state's employment department specifically designed to support local farms and agricultural workers. Farms can qualify for grants up to $40,000 if they meet several criteria: they must grow handpicked specialty crops sold locally (within 250 miles), hire only domestic agricultural workers, and be owned and operated by a state resident. The grant funds are intended to offset overtime pay during peak harvest periods and achieve three main goals: promoting local workforce development, reducing transportation pollution, and strengthening food sovereignty and climate/disaster resilience. The bill also modifies existing law by adding the grant program administration to the duties of the office of agricultural and seasonal workforce services, which currently handles tasks like processing labor certification applications and conducting field checks. By creating financial incentives for local, sustainable farming practices, the bill aims to support small-scale agriculture, domestic workers, and local food systems while addressing environmental and economic challenges.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5722&Year=2025&Initiative=false