MD HB42

Establishes the On-Farm Organics Diversion and Recycling Grant Program in the Department of Agriculture beginning July 1, 2027, to fund on-farm composting, wasted food prevention, and food rescue projects for farmers, nonprofits, soil conservation districts, and higher education institutions.

Creates the Wasted Food Reduction and Diversion Grant Program in the Department of the Environment beginning July 1, 2027, to award grants for infrastructure, programs, and education that reduce, rescue, and divert wasted food statewide.

Establishes the County Wasted Food Reduction Block Grant Program beginning July 1, 2027, distributing grants to counties proportional to population for local food waste reduction projects.

Authorizes the Governor to transfer $3,000,000 annually from the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund to each of the three grant programs during fiscal years 2027 through 2031.

Prioritizes grant funding for projects serving overburdened or underserved communities, producing minimally contaminated compost, creating jobs with living wages, and minimizing negative community impacts.