NJ A4067

Establishes the Food Recovery Infrastructure Grant Program in the Department of Agriculture to provide grants up to $50,000 to food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other nonprofit organizations that distribute food to those in need.

Grants may cover eligible equipment including commercial refrigerators, freezers, refrigerant and non-refrigerant box trucks, cargo vans, pallet jacks, forklifts, ovens, stoves, and industrial shelving necessary to safely recover and store donated food.

Food recovery organizations may use up to 10 percent of grant funds for employee salaries, wages, and administrative overhead costs.

The Department of Agriculture, in consultation with the Office of the Food Security Advocate, will develop application criteria and administer the program, with grants subject to approval by the Division of Budget and Accounting.

Appropriates funds from the General Fund to the Department of Agriculture, with the Secretary required to pursue federal grants and non-State funding sources before expending State funds.