Strengthening Local Food Security Act of 2025
Summary
The Strengthening Local Food Security Act of 2025 aims to bolster local food systems by establishing a program where the Secretary of Agriculture enters into cooperative agreements with eligible units of government. This program focuses on purchasing food from local and regional covered producers and distributing it within the eligible unit of government's boundaries. The Act provides mandatory funding of $200,000,000 annually from the Commodity Credit Corporation and authorizes additional appropriations.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely increase demand for local agricultural products, providing economic opportunities for small and mid-sized farmers, beginning farmers, veteran farmers, and underserved farmers. It also aims to improve food security, particularly in underserved communities, by ensuring access to fresh and nutritious food through hunger relief organizations and school meal programs.
Potential Benefits
- Increased economic opportunities for local farmers and producers.
- Improved access to fresh, healthy food for underserved communities.
- Strengthened local food systems and supply chain resilience.
- Support for school meal programs and hunger relief organizations.
- Potential for job creation in local food production and distribution.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential administrative burden for eligible units of government in managing the program and complying with reporting requirements.
- Risk of funds not being utilized effectively or efficiently by some eligible units of government.
- Possible limitations on consumer choice due to the focus on local and regional products.
- The 400-mile radius restriction might exclude some producers who could otherwise participate.
- Potential for increased food costs if local products are more expensive than those from larger, national suppliers.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote food security and support local agriculture. Specifically, the preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare." Article I, Section 8, Clause 3, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce, could be interpreted to support the Act's provisions related to agricultural marketing and food distribution. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual liberties or rights protected by the Constitution.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).