VT
Vermont House Bill H0550

Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont House Bill H0550

Introduced
1/3/24  

Caption

An act relating to expanding eligibility under the local foods grant program

Impact

If enacted, H0550 would specifically amend existing statutes concerning the Local Foods Grant Program. Schools, school districts, and registered childcare providers would have broader access to funding, allowing them to purchase necessary equipment and materials, such as gardening supplies and kitchen wares. This could lead to significant improvements in child nutrition programs, promoting greater use of local food products and hands-on educational opportunities related to farming.

Summary

House Bill H0550 proposes to expand the eligibility for grants under the Local Foods Grant Program in Vermont. The bill aims to enhance the existing farm-to-school initiatives, promoting local agriculture and improving children's nutrition education. By increasing the types of activities and equipment that can be funded through the grants, this legislation seeks to foster a connection between local farmers and schools, thereby enriching students' learning experiences related to farming and health.

Contention

While the bill enjoys general support for its objectives of improving nutrition and local agriculture, some may express concerns regarding the allocation of state resources to fund these grants. Stakeholders might debate the effectiveness of expanding grant eligibility versus focusing on other aspects of child nutrition and health initiatives. An important focus will also be ensuring that grants are distributed fairly and that the program adequately addresses the diverse needs of various school communities throughout Vermont.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT H0165

An act relating to school food programs and universal school meals

VT SB3982

EAT Local Foods Act of 2024 Expanding Access To Local Foods Act of 2024

VT HF550

A bill for an act creating a grocer reinvestment program, a local produce processing grant program, and a grocer reinvestment and local food processing fund under the purview of the economic development authority, modifying the local food and farm program, and making appropriations.(Formerly HF 59; See HF 1032.)

VT HB06842

An Act Concerning The Establishment Of A Local Food For Schools Incentive Program And Expansion Of The Ct Grown For Ct Kids Grant Program.

VT H0883

An act relating to making appropriations for the support of government

VT HB07013

An Act Concerning Enhancements To The Local Food For Schools Incentive Program.

VT H0408

An act relating to State purchasing of local food

VT HF1032

A bill for an act creating a grocer reinvestment program, a local produce processing grant program, and a grocer reinvestment and local food processing fund under the purview of the economic development authority, and modifying the local food and farm program. (Formerly HF 550, HF 59.)

VT H0494

An act relating to making appropriations for the support of government

VT H0721

An act relating to expanding access to Medicaid and Dr. Dynasaur

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.