CA SB1247

Requires the Department of Pesticide Regulation, in consultation with the Department of Food and Agriculture, to establish a voluntary incentive program by January 1, 2018 for farmers using environmental farming practices within agricultural innovation zones (areas within a specified distance of schools or senior health care centers).

Mandates priority funding for projects in agricultural innovation zones located in disadvantaged communities, with at least 50 percent of available funding directed to projects that avoid pesticide applications beyond those authorized for organic certification.

Defines environmental farming practices to include integrated pest management, cover crops, crop rotation, reduced tillage, soil health improvements, greenhouse gas reduction, and carbon sequestration practices.

Requires the Department of Pesticide Regulation to submit reports to the Legislature by January 1, 2021 and every three years thereafter detailing program impacts, including acres converted, specific practices adopted, project locations, and pesticide use reduction.

Specifies that both departments shall conduct these activities using existing resources to the extent available, with no new appropriation required.