Mississippi Senate Bill SB2084

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22
• Failed: 2/23/22

Caption

State General Fund; FY 2023 appropriation to Dept. of Agriculture & Commerce to implement the Farms and Families Program.

Impact

The implementation of the Farm and Families Program is intended to not only support the nutritional needs of low-income families but also to benefit local farmers by increasing their sales. By encouraging SNAP recipients to shop at farmers markets, the bill seeks to stimulate local economies and promote healthier eating habits among state residents. The program is anticipated to have a dual effect: enhancing food security while simultaneously supporting the agricultural sector. This blending of health and economic objectives could contribute to a more robust local food system.

Summary

Senate Bill 2084 appropriates funds from the State General Fund to the Department of Agriculture and Commerce to implement the Mississippi Farm and Families Program for the fiscal year 2023. The bill allocates a total of $700,000 to enhance the purchasing power of participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), specifically aimed at enabling them to buy fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers' markets and food retailers. This initiative is a response to the need for improved access to healthy food options in Mississippi, a state with significant challenges related to food insecurity and nutrition.

Contention

There may be debates regarding the distribution and accessibility of the funds appropriated by SB2084, particularly concerning its impact on various communities across the state. Questions about how effectively the program will reach those in need, as well as how the funds will be managed and allocated, might arise. Stakeholders may express differing opinions on whether $700,000 is sufficient for the intended purpose, prompting discussions about long-term funding and program sustainability.