Access to Healthy Food In The News
Updated April 2008 The NCSL Healthy Community Design Project regularly collects resources of interest to legislators, policymakers and those interested in nutrition access-related issues. We provide the links below for informational purposes only, and they do not necessarily reflect NCSL positions. "Farm to School Success Stirring State Action" This article from the Michigan Land Use Institute presents a snapshot of farm-to-school history and activity in Michigan, as well an examination of trends from other states in how they are tackling farm-to-school and local food programs. Recently, House Bill 5967 was introduced in the Michigan legislature, it seeks to raise the minimum-bid threshold to purchase under less stringent bidding requirements to the higher federal limit of $100,000 from Michigan's limit of $19,650. A higher limit allows more food service directors and local farmers to work together and get local food onto cafeteria trays. However, as this article suggests, raising the minimum-bid threshold is just the first step in a process of trying to build a farm-to-school program and local food system in the state. For other examples of state legislation pertaining to farm-to-school and local food issues, please see the Healthy Community Design Legislation Database. Return to Access to Healthy Food Menu Page |