Connecticut Senate Bill SB00076

Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/16
• Refer: 2/10/16
• Report Pass: 2/24/16
• Refer: 3/4/16
• Report Pass: 3/10/16
• Refer: 4/13/16
• Report Pass: 4/20/16
• Refer: 4/26/16
• Report Pass: 4/28/16
• Engrossed: 4/29/16
• Report Pass: 5/1/16
• Chaptered: 5/9/16
• Enrolled: 5/16/16
• Passed: 5/27/16

Caption

An Act Concerning Connecticut's Farm To School Program.

Impact

The implementation of SB00076 will bring significant changes to existing regulations that govern how schools source food. Specifically, it requires that any proposal submitted by food service management companies for local school nutrition programs includes detailed information on how such proposals align with the state's farm to school program. This could lead to a meaningful shift in the way schools procure food, prioritizing local sources over broader national suppliers, thus fostering better relationships between schools and local farmers.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 76, also known as An Act Concerning Connecticut's Farm To School Program, aims to enhance and reinforce the state's commitment to sourcing local agricultural products for school meals. The bill mandates that, by October 1, 2017, regulations surrounding the nutrition standards for school breakfast and lunch programs must be amended to facilitate the purchase of products from local farmers. This aligns with the broader initiative to promote local agriculture and improve the nutritional quality of food served in schools across Connecticut.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB00076 appears to be largely supportive among legislators and community stakeholders who advocate for enhanced support of local agriculture and improved nutrition for students. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate, indicating a strong legislative backing for its goals. However, there may be concerns from food service providers about the implications of increased requirements for bidding processes and whether it could affect the competitive landscape for contracts.

Contention

While there seems to be a consensus on the importance of supporting local farmers and improving student nutrition, some opponents may express concerns about potential limitations placed on food service companies, making it more complicated for them to compete for school contracts. This could inadvertently lead to higher costs or reduced choices for school districts if local sourcing proves challenging. Nonetheless, the overarching focus of SB00076 is to connect local farms with schools, enhancing the local food economy.