MD HB429

Establishes the On-Farm Organics Diversion and Recycling Grant Program within the Maryland Department of Agriculture beginning July 1, 2028, to fund on-farm composting, wasted food prevention, and food rescue projects

Requires $250,000 annual appropriation to the grant program starting fiscal year 2028

Eligible grant recipients include farmers, urban farmers, urban agricultural producers, soil conservation districts, higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations, and businesses partnering with farmers

Prioritizes projects serving overburdened or underserved communities, producing "General Use" classified compost, and providing community benefits such as job creation and living wages

Requires annual reporting to the General Assembly by December 31 on grants awarded, job creation impacts, food waste diverted, and benefits to farmers