NC H1099

State Board of Education and Department of Public Instruction directed to collaborate with local school boards to reduce food costs through increased participation in the North Carolina Procurement Alliance and promote locally grown produce through the Farm to School Program.

$80,000 appropriated from General Fund to Department of Public Instruction for fiscal year 2012-2013 to provide administrative support to the North Carolina Procurement Alliance.

$575,000 appropriated from General Fund to Department of Public Instruction for fiscal year 2012-2013 to distribute $5,000 to each local school administrative unit for purchasing equipment like chopping and slicing devices to encourage use of locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables in school nutrition programs.

State Board of Education and Department of Public Instruction required to report progress to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee by November 1, 2013.

Bill becomes effective July 1, 2012.