HB 6040 Summary

• Establishes the "farm-to-school grant act" to create a grant program administered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture for schools and school districts to develop relationships with local farmers and producers.

• Allows K-12 schools, school consortiums, school districts, and technical assistance providers to apply for grants up to $15,000 to fund equipment, resources, training, and materials that increase use of local farm products in school food service programs.

• Authorizes the department to accept funding from state appropriations, federal grants, private donations, and other sources to support the grant program.

• Requires the department to identify local farm product producers, processors, and suppliers, and disseminate information on food procurement procedures to help schools and farmers connect and access local farm products.

• Authorizes the department to promulgate rules in consultation with producers, school districts, and schools to establish grant award criteria and program administration procedures.