By Jamie Martin
Texas lawmakers are reviewing new bills aimed at helping small farmers and local food entrepreneurs. One of the most discussed proposals, House Bill 5459, would reduce the number of permits required for farmers to participate in farmers markets by eliminating the need for separate local and state health permits. If passed, farmers would need only one permit to sell their produce.
Judith McGeary, executive director of the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance, expressed support for the bill. “And it’s particularly damaging when you think about smaller markets, especially those in food deserts where people have less access to healthy food,” she said, “because the reality is, when farmers markets set up, odds are those farmers are making even less money.”
McGeary believes the bill would benefit both small producers and communities by making fresh, local food more accessible while reducing the financial burden on farmers.
Additional proposed legislation includes a bill that would allow farmers to sell ungraded eggs to restaurants and stores, opening more income opportunities for small egg producers.
Another bill under review is a revision to the cottage food law, which would let home cooks legally sell food prepared in their kitchens and earn up to $50,000 annually.
These efforts reflect a growing focus on supporting food access and entrepreneurship in Texas. McGeary encouraged the public to contact their legislators before the session ends on June 2.
“It is valuable to the entire community to make it easier for our farmers to grow and get healthy food to the consumers,” she said.
The changes could provide vital economic and health benefits to both producers and consumers statewide.
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Categories: National