Bill > S311

This bill establishes the Massachusetts Farm to School Program, which aims to strengthen the state's agricultural economy, improve student nutrition, and enhance food literacy. The program will be administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and includes two main components: a grant program and a local food incentive program. The grant program will provide funding for kitchen equipment, staff training, food system curriculum development, and educational activities like farm field trips and school gardens. Eligible applicants include K-12 schools and licensed child care programs participating in federal meal programs. The local food incentive program will reimburse school districts and early education programs $1 for every $2 spent on Massachusetts-grown products and $1 for every $3 spent on regional products from New England or New York. An advisory committee will be established to guide the program, and a full-time program coordinator will be hired to oversee implementation. The bill requires annual reporting on the program's impact, including data on student participation, school gardens, food purchases, and unmet needs. The program emphasizes promoting geographic, social, economic, and racial equity in its implementation and seeks to support local farmers and food producers while providing nutritious, locally sourced meals to students.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S311