- Food, Energy, and Agriculture Commentary
- August 27, 2009
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Local Food, Farms, and Jobs Act of Illinois: Why Not the Whole United States?
by Francis ThickeA new law will encourage local food production in Illinois. The Local Food, Farms, and Jobs Act sets procurement goals of local farm and food products for food purchases funded by the state.
One goal of the law is that by 2020 20% of all food and food products purchased by state agencies and state-owned facilities be produced in Illinois. State-owned facilities include prisons and public universities.
A second goal of the law is that by 2020 10% of all food and food products purchased by entities that are at least partly funded by state dollars be produced in Illinois. This category includes public schools, child care facilities, and hospitals.
The legislation creates a Local Food Council that will help facilitate meeting these goals.
This seems like a reasonable approach that we should consider here in Iowa. We in Iowa like to claim the title of “Food Capital of the World.” However, estimates are that about 80% of the $8 billion worth of food we eat in Iowa comes from out of state. Producing more of the food we eat right here in Iowa will be good for our economy, rural communities, health and environment.
1 Comment
I hope you will have a chance to share your views with the area legislators on this subject–Senator Becky Schmitz; Rep Larry Marek, and Rep Hanson. It sounds very promising to me. I am also happy to hear you speaking out for local control of hog lots. Clearly, that’s a huge area of concern to the health of the state, the nation, and the world. Let me know how the Washington County Democrats can help promote your campaign.