This morning, the USDA announced a framework designed to create “new, more and better markets for small and midsized producers” across our nation and here in California. Recognizing the supply-chain interruptions and disruptions brought on by both the pandemic and Russia’s war in Ukraine, our federal partners are taking concrete steps to strengthen our food systems. This framework builds toward a future in which food systems are more distributed, more local, and more resilient. It also aims to put market power back in the hands of farmers and ranchers, while improving access for all consumers to affordable, nutritious food. This is also about equity – not just for underserved consumers across the spectrum, but also for smaller-scale growers and producers who share some of those same perspectives – rural, underserved, excluded from many of these systems and opportunities.
This is more than a framework. It includes real investments to move us toward these goals: $300 million to aid growers as they transition to organic production; $75 million to support urban ag; loan guarantees and up to $375 million in to support independent food processing and meat/poultry processing plants, along with working with lenders who have been reticent to invest in these sectors. The long list of investments includes $400 million to create regional food business centers to help small and midsized producers navigate the challenges of processing and market access, investments in farm-to-school commodity purchases, nutrition access for seniors, food safety certification for specialty crops, supply chain infrastructure, and a pipeline of well-trained workers and safe workplaces, among several others.
This is a comprehensive and well-though-out framework, supported by meaningful and aggressive investments in rural America. I’m energized by these new and strengthened opportunities to support our California farmers, ranchers and consumers.
For more information, please see USDA’s full announcement, including funding details.