This bill proposes a supplemental appropriation of $500,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Agriculture for the fiscal year 2024, specifically aimed at enhancing the Jersey Fresh marketing and promotion activities. The Jersey Fresh program, which has been in operation since 1984, is designed to promote locally grown produce and has seen fluctuating funding levels over the years. Previously, the program received $100,000 under the fiscal year 2024 appropriations act, but this bill seeks to significantly increase that funding to support the program as it approaches its 40th anniversary.

The intent behind this appropriation is to replace the reliance on the USDA Specialty Crops Block Grant for the Jersey Fresh program, thereby allowing for an increase in federal funding available to farmers and organizations through this grant. By reallocating funds in this manner, the bill aims to create a more balanced funding structure that benefits both the Jersey Fresh program and the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant awards, ultimately supporting the state's farmers more effectively. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon enactment.