In the near future, I will be introducing legislation to create a state tax credit for farmers who donate surplus agricultural products to qualified food banks and charitable food organizations.

Across Pennsylvania, farmers often face situations where perfectly good produce, dairy, and other agricultural goods cannot be sold due to market fluctuations, cosmetic imperfections, or overproduction. Too often, this wholesome food is left to waste rather than reaching families who need it most.

This legislation will establish a farm-to-food bank tax credit that reimburses farmers for a portion of the cost of donating surplus products. The credit will help offset harvesting, packaging, and transportation expenses, ensuring that the generosity of Pennsylvania’s agricultural community is not a financial burden.

By incentivizing food donations, this measure not only supports farmers but also strengthens our food security network. It reduces food waste, eases strain on charitable organizations, and provides greater access to fresh, nutritious food for families in need.

Similar programs in other states have proven to be highly successful in forging stronger ties between farmers and food banks while significantly reducing hunger. With Pennsylvania’s rich agricultural base, our state is well positioned to benefit from such a program.

I invite you to join me in supporting this commonsense, win-win initiative that assists our farmers, supports charitable food networks, and fights hunger in our communities.