The bill H.408, introduced by Representative Surprenant, aims to promote the procurement of local foods by State institutions and universities in Vermont to enhance the viability of local farms and food businesses. It establishes a State policy that encourages these entities to give preference to local foods when they are comparable in cost to non-local options. Specifically, it mandates that food procurement officials must prioritize local foods unless the price exceeds that of non-local products by more than 10 percent. The bill also outlines definitions for local food, State agencies, and institutions, emphasizing the importance of supporting Vermont's agricultural sector.

Additionally, the bill requires food service management companies bidding for contracts with schools to provide information on how they can supply locally produced foods, which would enable schools to qualify for local foods incentive grants. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025. Overall, H.408 seeks to strengthen local economies and promote food self-sufficiency in Vermont through strategic purchasing policies.