Federal Food Procurement Reform: Supporting Farmers, Workers, Climate, and Equity.
This Act mandates the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reform its massive food purchasing strategy to prioritize equity, sustainability, and worker well-being. It requires the USDA to actively seek out foods sourced from small, beginning, veteran, and socially disadvantaged farmers, as well as products that meet high environmental and labor standards. This shift aims to strengthen local food economies, ensure fairer practices in the supply chain, and provide more diverse, climate-friendly food options in federal programs like schools and food banks.
Key points
USDA must increase purchases from beginning, veteran, and socially disadvantaged farmers, promoting equity and resilient regional food systems.
New procurement criteria prioritize foods that measurably reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support soil health, and come from suppliers with anti-deforestation policies.
A 5-year pilot program will select food bids based on "best value," considering labor standards (like collective bargaining) and climate goals, rather than just the lowest cost.
Grants (up to $100,000) and technical assistance are provided to small and disadvantaged producers to help them meet food safety requirements and participate in federal contracts.
Expired
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