HI HCR61

Urges the Department of Agriculture to ensure socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers are included in developing, adopting, implementing, and enforcing food and agriculture laws, rules, policies, and programs.

Directs the department to consider including farmers in urbanized areas with populations of at least 50,000 residents and to consult with federal, state, and county agencies on opportunities for disadvantaged farmers.

Requests the department disseminate information about opportunities from USDA, EPA, GAO, OMB, and other federal agencies, and evaluate boards and committees for inclusion of socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.

Requires the department to compile and report data on subsidies and state land leases to determine if resources are being allocated to socially disadvantaged farmers, defining the term to include Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, African Americans, Native Americans, Alaska Natives, Hispanics, Asian Americans, and immigrant communities.

Requires the Department of Agriculture to submit a report to the Governor and Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2022 Regular Session with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation on improving processes to serve socially disadvantaged and female farmers and ranchers.