House Resolution No. [insert number] 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 the agricultural community, particularly following the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) decision to halt over $1 billion in federal funding for programs that assist schools and food banks in purchasing food from local producers. This funding cut is expected to significantly impact food security in Louisiana, especially for low-income families and schoolchildren, as it will result in the loss of millions in funding for food banks and educational institutions.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of state-level initiatives to support local farmers and strengthen the food system in light of these federal cuts. It calls for the creation and expansion of programs that prioritize farm-to-institution purchasing, which would help maintain contracts between local farmers and institutional buyers, thereby ensuring access to fresh, nutritious food for Louisiana's communities. The House of Representatives expresses its support for the agricultural sector and encourages continued innovation and dedication among Louisiana farmers to overcome these challenges. A copy of the resolution will be sent to the executive director of Farmers First of Louisiana.