Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB750

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/6/23
• Refer: 12/6/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Payment processing equipment and services for farmers and farmers' markets and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The introduction of AB750 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regarding agricultural commerce and support services for farmers. By providing funding of $735,000, which includes support for a full-time position to help coordinate the program, the bill empowers local farmers to participate actively in electronic commerce. This is particularly important in enhancing the operational capabilities of farmers' markets, allowing them to better serve communities and improve access to local foods, especially during periods where cash transactions may be limited for some consumers.

Summary

Assembly Bill 750 is a legislative proposal introduced in Wisconsin aimed at improving the accessibility of electronic payment systems for farmers and farmers' markets. By mandating the Department of Health Services to provide electronic benefit transfer (EBT) and credit/debit card processing equipment and services, the bill seeks to facilitate transactions for farmers who sell directly to consumers. A crucial component of this bill is its focus on ensuring that the systems can manage transactions related to the FoodShare program, which supports low-income individuals in accessing nutritious food.

Contention

While the bill appears largely beneficial, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of funds and the management of the payment processing program. Questions surrounding the efficiency of implementation, potential administrative burdens on the Department of Health Services, and the requirements placed on vendors processing these transactions could arise. Furthermore, there might be debates on the necessity of local purchasing incentives and how these will be funded, potentially leading to discussions about the financial sustainability of such a program in the long term.