The Farmers Market Support Amendment Act of 2025 aims to enhance the operation and accessibility of farmers markets in the District of Columbia, particularly in low food access areas. The legislation establishes a Farmers Market Support Program within the Department of Health, which will provide technical assistance, streamline permitting processes, and coordinate efforts across various agencies. Additionally, the bill creates a grant program to incentivize the establishment and expansion of farmers markets by covering operational costs, infrastructure, and year-round operations. It also standardizes licensing requirements and mandates discounted permitting fees for markets located in low food access areas.
Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of definitions for farmers markets, farm stands, and mobile markets, as well as the creation of a publicly available online map to promote these markets. The grant program will allocate at least $250,000 to support farmers markets in low food access areas, with eligible uses including operational costs and customer incentives. The legislation also requires the Mayor to post standardized licensing and permitting requirements for farmers markets on a public website, ensuring transparency and accessibility for potential operators. Overall, this bill seeks to improve food equity, economic opportunity, and public health by increasing access to fresh, locally sourced food for all District residents.