MT HB649

Establishes a pilot Farm to Food Bank Grant Program administered by the Department of Agriculture to fund purchases of Montana-grown fruits, vegetables, meat, legumes, whole grains, eggs, and dairy products for distribution to food pantries

Appropriates $3 million from the general fund for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025

Grants awarded through competitive process with preference given to applicants serving underserved communities, particularly rural areas and tribal reservations

"Montana-grown" products must have at least 51% of ingredients grown or raised in Montana; grant recipients limited to 5% of award for administrative costs

Requires biennial reporting to the economic affairs interim committee on purchases, products, number of businesses supported, and recommendations for program continuation