By Bob Katzen
Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill titled “Fostering Agricultural Resilience in Massachusetts,” nicknamed the FARM bill, that proponents said will support Massachusetts’ 7,000 farms; make it easier for families to buy fresh and nutritious food; protect the state’s food supply for the future; and continue the state’s response to federal actions that threaten food access.
A key provision in the bill builds on tax policy designed to keep farms financially viable through the Chapter 61A program, which allows farmland to be taxed based on agricultural value rather than market value.
Other provisions include helping owners of small farms to grow their businesses by removing hurdles and making agritourism ventures possible, such as corn mazes and “pick your own” berry and fruit operations; supporting expanding farm operations with a local option property tax exemption for owners who build new agricultural structures; making permanent the Healthy Incentives Program to help families afford fresh produce and the Farm to School program to bring local ingredients into schools; and requiring regular reporting on the distribution of local produce through food assistance programs including food banks, universal school meals, Meals on Wheels and the Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program.
“I’m proud to support the Senate’s effort to build a more resilient and sustainable food system in the commonwealth,” said Sen. Dylan Fernandes (D-Falmouth), Senate Chair of the Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries. “The FARM bill will expand access to fresh, locally grown food while putting more money into the hands of our farmers and fishermen. By reducing costs, strengthening supply chains and expanding reliable markets, this legislation makes strategic investments into an industry that is essential for our economy, environment and the health of our communities.”
“Today, the Senate advanced urgently needed legislation to support the farms, producers and fisheries that are the foundation of our local and regional food systems,” said Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northampton), Senate vice chair of the Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries. “In Western and North Central Massachusetts, where agriculture is core to our economy and identity, we know that when we lose farmland, we lose far more than fields—we lose livelihoods, food security and community.”
She continued, “This legislation reflects the recommendations of the Special Commission on Agriculture in the 21st Century—a body that I was proud to co-chair … With the FARM Bill, Massachusetts is stepping up—investing in the next generation of farms and fisheries while ensuring more local, nutritious food reaches Massachusetts families.”
(A “Yes” vote is for the bill.)
Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes