An Act relative to urban farmland
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill creates the Vacant Lots to Urban Agriculture Fund to support the transformation of unused land in Massachusetts into farms, community gardens, and other agricultural projects. The fund will specifically target areas designated as environmental justice populations, aiming to increase access to fresh, local food and promote sustainable agriculture within these communities. The bill seeks to address food insecurity and environmental concerns by utilizing vacant spaces for productive agricultural use.
Key provisions
- Establishes the Vacant Lots to Urban Agriculture Fund.
- Prioritizes projects in environmental justice populations.
- Supports the conversion of vacant lots into farms and community gardens.
- Allows for other agricultural enterprises on the converted land.
- Directs the fund to support related infrastructure and resources.
Who is affected
- Residents of environmental justice populations in Massachusetts
- Community gardeners
- Farmers
- Local municipalities
- Agricultural organizations
Notable changes
- Creates a dedicated funding source for urban agriculture initiatives.
- Focuses on equitable distribution of agricultural resources.
- Recognizes the importance of local food systems.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
8 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
James B. Eldridge
Joanne M. Comerford
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