House Resolution No. by Representative McFarland commends Louisiana farmers for their vital role in providing healthy food options, supporting local economies, and promoting agricultural resilience. The resolution highlights the challenges faced by farmers due to recent federal funding cuts, particularly the halting of over $1 billion in USDA funding for programs that assist schools and food banks in purchasing local produce. This funding loss is expected to significantly impact food security in Louisiana, especially for low-income families and schoolchildren who rely on these programs for access to nutritious food.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of local agricultural partnerships and the need for state-level initiatives to support farmers in light of federal cuts. It calls for the creation and expansion of funding mechanisms that prioritize farm-to-institution purchasing, thereby strengthening Louisiana's food systems. The House of Representatives expresses its support for the agricultural community's dedication and innovation in ensuring access to healthy food, despite ongoing challenges. A copy of the resolution will be sent to the executive director of Farmers First of Louisiana to further acknowledge their contributions.