AK HCR24

Legislature requests Governor establish a state food resource development working group to collaborate with Alaska Food Policy Council on building a sustainable, healthy food system

Less than 5 percent of food consumed in Alaska is produced locally despite residents spending $1.5 billion annually on food, and the working group would address this gap

If established, the working group should coordinate with multiple state departments including Natural Resources, Fish and Game, Commerce, Health and Social Services, Education, Environmental Conservation, and Corrections

Working group should identify economic opportunities in food production, processing, and distribution; develop nutrition programs for schools and public facilities; and work with University of Alaska on sustainable food research

Legislature encourages collaboration with Alaska Native regional corporations, nonprofit organizations, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and farming groups to develop local food resources and emergency food preparedness