Designates first full week in August of each year as "Farmers Market Week."
Impact
The resolution emphasizes how farmers markets promote good health by increasing access to nutritious and affordable food, supporting local economies, and fostering community engagement. They provide opportunities for farmers to connect directly with consumers, thus creating personal relationships and trust in local food sources. Moreover, farmers markets are known to return more than three times as much of their revenue into the local economy compared to chain entities, which aids in job creation and enhances local economic activity.
Summary
AJR12 is a joint resolution that designates the first full week in August of each year as 'Farmers Market Week' in the State of New Jersey. This initiative aims to recognize and celebrate the significant role of farmers markets in local communities throughout the state. The resolution seeks to enhance public awareness of the benefits that these markets provide, including increased access to fresh and nutritious food, support for local economies, and promotion of sustainable farming practices. The aim is to coincide with 'National Farmers Market Week' to ensure broader recognition at both the state and national levels.
Contention
While the bill seems to garner support for recognizing farmers markets, there may be underlying points of contention regarding funding and resources for locally sourced food initiatives. The resolution highlights the potential for educational opportunities about nutrition and cooking, which suggests a broader commitment to public health. However, there could be concerns regarding whether sufficient governmental support will be provided to ensure the success and sustainability of these markets, especially for those utilizing nutritional assistance programs.