Montana HB649 establishes a farm to food bank grant program to support regional food hubs.

Montana HB649 establishes a farm to food bank grant program administered by the Department of Agriculture. The program aims to support regional food hubs in purchasing, processing, storing, and distributing local food to food pantries. It creates a new market for Montana farmers and ranchers, expands access to fresh, local products for low-income consumers, and strengthens producer and consumer relationships. The program includes rulemaking, reporting requirements, and an appropriation of $3 million from the general fund.

Montana HB649 establishes a farm to food bank grant program to support regional food hubs.

Montana HB649 establishes a farm to food bank grant program administered by the Department of Agriculture. The program aims to support regional food hubs in purchasing, processing, storing, and distributing local food to food pantries. It creates a new market for Montana farmers and ranchers, expands access to fresh, local products for low-income consumers, and strengthens producer and consumer relationships. The program includes rulemaking, reporting requirements, and an appropriation of $3 million from the general fund.