The bill aims to promote local agriculture by facilitating the use of greenhouses and innovative low-energy techniques for year-round production of fresh fruits and vegetables. It recognizes the challenges posed by supply chain disruptions and inflation on food security and quality, emphasizing the importance of access to affordable nutrition for the health and well-being of citizens. The legislation also highlights the significant role of local food banks during the COVID-19 pandemic and seeks to encourage families to adopt these agricultural techniques to enhance food availability in their communities.
To implement these goals, the bill amends existing laws, specifically RCW 19.27.015 and 19.27.065. It clarifies definitions related to agricultural structures and introduces the term "temporary growing structure," which is defined as a structure covered with flexible synthetic material used for plant protection. Additionally, the bill specifies that temporary growing structures used solely for the production of horticultural plants are not considered buildings or structures under the law, thereby exempting them from certain regulatory requirements.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 19.27.015, 19.27.065
Bill as Passed Legislature: 19.27.015, 19.27.065
Session Law: 19.27.015, 19.27.065