Bill > SB2061

This bill establishes the Oklahoma Food Policy Council Act, creating a new council within the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry to advise and coordinate efforts related to food policy in the state. The council will consist of eleven members appointed by the Governor, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, representing various stakeholders including agricultural producers, food security initiatives, health departments, universities, and food banks. The council's responsibilities include fostering connections between farmers and local organizations to promote "local food" (food produced within Oklahoma) and "sustainable food" (food produced in a way that is economically viable, environmentally protective, and accessible), strengthening farm-to-school programs, improving producer-to-consumer access through farmers markets and "agritourism" (tourism related to agricultural activities), and assessing the impact of local food systems on economic development and public health. The council will operate under the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and Oklahoma Open Records Act, meaning its meetings and records will be publicly accessible, and will submit an annual report with findings and recommendations to the Governor and legislative leaders. Members will not receive compensation but can be reimbursed for travel expenses.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb2061&Session=2600