Us Congress Senate Bill SB3146

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/26/23
• Refer: 10/26/23

Caption

Reduce Food Loss and Waste Act

Impact

If enacted, this bill would institute a certification program under the Department of Agriculture to recognize organizations actively participating in reducing food waste. The program intends to offer incentives for these participants, likely leading to an increase in food available for donation. By establishing a framework for voluntary participation, the bill anticipates that more entities will engage in practices that contribute positively to food security and environmental sustainability.

Summary

SB3146, known as the Reduce Food Loss and Waste Act, aims to amend the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 by establishing a voluntary program dedicated to reducing food loss and waste. The legislative proposal outlines provisions for certifying various eligible participants, including government entities, corporations, food manufacturers, and educational institutions, who engage in practices that help mitigate food wastage. The bill emphasizes promoting the donation of excess, apparently wholesome food to nonprofit organizations aiding individuals in need and encourages alternative disposal methods, such as composting and animal feed redirection.

Contention

Notably, the bill sparks discussion about the responsibility of food producers and retailers in managing waste. Critics may argue that relying on voluntary programs could lead to uneven compliance and efforts among participants, which may dilute the effectiveness of waste reduction initiatives. Furthermore, the implementation will require significant coordination between various agencies, including the Department of Agriculture, the FDA, and the EPA, raising questions about the feasibility of inter-agency collaboration and the potential effectiveness of the certification program.