AR HB1839

Creates the Local Food, Farms, and Jobs Act to develop local farm and food economies and encourage state procurement of local food products.

Requires state-funded agencies receiving at least $25,000 annually for food purchases to spend 10% on local products in fiscal year 2018 and 20% in subsequent fiscal years as procurement goals.

Agencies must give preference to local farm or food product providers when bids do not exceed the lowest bid by more than 10%, provided the provider is responsible and responsive.

Mandates agencies establish baseline spending percentages for fiscal year 2017 and develop tracking systems; requires annual compliance reports to the Bureau of Legislative Research by October 1 of each year.

Establishes an Arkansas Agriculture Department program coordinator position to support local food providers, facilitate partnerships between vendors and agencies, and promote participation in the federal Farm to School Program and Arkansas Grown program.