Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7563

Introduced
2/9/24  

Caption

Establishes the organic farming and certification program to be administered by the department of environmental management.

Impact

The introduction of HB 7563 represents a significant move towards promoting organic agriculture within Rhode Island. By providing grants and assistance to small and beginning farmers, the bill seeks to bolster local economic development. The allocation of $250,000 from state treasury funds underscores the commitment to strengthen the organic farming sector, addressing both market viability and sustainability. This legislative effort aligns with broader goals of ensuring food safety and supporting environmentally friendly practices within the agricultural industry.

Summary

House Bill 7563 establishes an Organic Farming and Certification Program in Rhode Island, which will be managed by the Department of Environmental Management. The program aims to enhance the marketing and economic competitiveness of locally grown organic agricultural products. Through this initiative, the state intends to support organic farmers with financial and technical assistance, facilitating their involvement in a sustainable agricultural market.

Contention

Although details on specific points of contention within the legislative discussions surrounding HB 7563 are not available, it is likely that discussions may arise regarding budget allocations, the effectiveness of the proposed program, and its long-term implications for both commercial farmers and local economies. Stakeholders may voice differing opinions on whether the program provides sufficient benefits to justify its funding and if it effectively addresses the challenges faced by the organic farming community.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6460

Agricultural Functions Of Department Of Environmental Management

RI S0500

Agricultural Functions Of Department Of Environmental Management

RI S0502

Freshwater Lake Management Program

RI H6018

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $5,000,000 To The Rhode Island Department Of Environmental Management For The Preservation, Protection, And Conservation Of Farmlands (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of Five Million Dollars To The Rhode Island Department Of Environmental Management For The Preservation, Protection, And Conservation Of Rhode Island Farmlands.)

RI S0560

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $5,000,000 To The Rhode Island Department Of Environmental Management For The Preservation, Protection, And Conservation Of Farmlands (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of Five Million Dollars To The Rhode Island Department Of Environmental Management For The Preservation, Protection, And Conservation Of Rhode Island Farmlands.)

RI H6360

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $2,000,000 To The Rhode Island Department Of Environmental Management For The Litter Control Appropriation Fund (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $2,000,000 To The Rhode Island Department Of Environmental Management For The Litter Control And Recycling Appropriation Fund.)

RI H6022

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $275,000 To The Rhode Island Department Of Environmental Management (dem) To Purchase Counters, And Maintain, Collect, And Analyze Year-round Data On Bike Path Usage Throughout The State (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $275,000 To The Rhode Island Department Of Environmental Management To Purchase Counters, And Maintain, Collect And Analyze Year-round Data On Bike Path Usage Throughout The State.)

RI S0941

Agricultural Functions Of Department

RI H5345

Agricultural Functions Of Department

RI H6468

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $400,000 To Community College Of Rhode Island For The Gwo Certification Program At The Flanagan Campus (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $400,000 To Community College Of Rhode Island For A Gwo Certification Program At The Flanagan Campus.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.