The bill aims to enhance statewide food security in Washington by developing a comprehensive strategy to end hunger, reduce diet-related health disparities, and improve agricultural viability and supply chain resilience. It establishes a new section that mandates the Department of Agriculture to monitor food system performance and coordinate efforts with various stakeholders, including state agencies, tribes, and nonprofit organizations. The bill also requires the department to report to the legislature on the competitiveness of Washington's agricultural regulatory landscape starting June 30, 2030.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 43.23.030 to expand the responsibilities of the Director of Agriculture, including the development of metrics to evaluate food system performance and the coordination of statewide food security efforts. The strategy must define food security, develop monitoring methodologies, and identify opportunities to address barriers in food production and supply chain coordination. The department is tasked with submitting the statewide food security strategy to the legislature by December 1, 2027, with the provisions of the bill set to expire on July 1, 2028.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.23.030
Substitute bill: 43.23.030
Engrossed substitute: 43.23.030
Bill as passed Legislature: 43.23.030
Session law: 43.23.030