Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund: grant program: edible food.
Impact
The bill is poised to have significant implications for state legislation surrounding waste management and environmental protection. By expanding the scope of eligible projects to specifically include the recovery of edible food, AB 2311 not only aligns with California's broader environmental goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also addresses food insecurity issues. The grant program will provide funding to initiatives aimed at improving edible food recovery capacity, thus promoting sustainability and efficiency in managing organic waste.
Summary
Assembly Bill 2311, introduced by Assembly Member Bennett, seeks to amend Section 42999 of the Public Resources Code concerning the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. The bill aims to expand an existing grant program administered by the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, focusing on financial assistance for projects that promote the recovery of edible food as part of organic waste management. This initiative underscores the state's commitment to addressing both food waste and greenhouse gas emissions by facilitating the development and expansion of relevant infrastructure.
Contention
Despite its potential benefits, the bill may encounter points of contention regarding the prioritization of grant allocations and the effectiveness of proposed infrastructure projects. Stakeholders may debate the bill's sufficiency in addressing food recovery concerns comprehensively and whether the funding mechanisms will adequately support local jurisdictions in achieving the desired environmental outcomes. There may also be scrutiny regarding the balance between environmental initiatives and economic factors associated with the infrastructure development necessary for implementing such programs.