HB 2825
Establish food desert produce pilot program
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill creates a two-year pilot program within the West Virginia Department of Agriculture to address food deserts. The program will partner with providers to establish weekly markets in designated food desert communities, offering fresh and affordable produce to residents. The program will also require participating providers to donate surplus produce to local food assistance organizations and provide resources on food storage and preparation.
Key provisions
- Establishes a ‘food desert community’ as an area lacking access to nutritious, affordable food.
- Requires the Department of Agriculture to create a pilot program to provide fresh produce to these communities.
- Specifies that the program will utilize partnering providers to operate weekly markets in three food desert communities.
- Outlines requirements for partnering providers, including reliable supply, acceptance of various payment methods, reduced price packages, and produce storage guides.
- Mandates that partnering providers donate surplus produce to food banks and pantries.
- Requires the Department of Agriculture to submit a report to the Legislature after two years outlining the program's impact.
- Prioritizes one market location in a rural area.
- Allows markets to partner with local schools, community organizations, or nonprofits.
Who is affected
- Residents of food desert communities in West Virginia
- Low-income families and individuals
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours