The bill proposes the establishment of the "Vacant Lots to Urban Agriculture Fund" within Chapter 29 of the General Laws, aimed at converting vacant lots into farms, community gardens, and other agricultural enterprises. It defines "vacant lot" as properties that have not been actively used or occupied for at least one year, excluding those undergoing renovations. The fund will be administered by the Department of Agricultural Resources and will receive revenue from various sources, including appropriations, gifts, and interest earned. Importantly, the funds will not revert to the General Fund at the end of the fiscal year and will be used exclusively for the purposes outlined in the bill.

The bill emphasizes prioritizing projects in environmental justice populations to enhance economic development, food security, and climate resilience. Grants will be available for municipalities and organizations to develop urban farming plans, purchase land, and establish pilot programs. The Department of Agricultural Resources is tasked with providing outreach materials in multiple languages and will be responsible for creating rules for the fund's administration. Additionally, the commissioner will report annually on grant applicants, recipients, and the impact on environmental justice populations.