HB1979 Summary

• Requires the General Assembly and relevant stakeholders to study policies that enhance the local economy, expand the locally produced food market, improve nutrition and health, prevent food waste, and determine future needs for local food-based initiatives

• Mandates a report on study results to be submitted to the Legislative Council or Joint Budget Committee by December 31, 2016

• Notes that Arkansas consistently ranks in the top two states in the country for food insecurity

• Identifies a growing need to provide local foods to communities across Arkansas and build a diverse and robust economy