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Senate commends Rhode Island Food Policy Council for food security and local agriculture work
Summary
The Senate adopted a resolution honoring the Rhode Island Food Policy Council for work on food security, local agriculture and resilience; members of the council were introduced to the chamber and senators noted the state's low in-state food production.
The Rhode Island Senate on March 25 adopted a resolution honoring the Rhode Island Food Policy Council (RIFPC) for its work on food security, resilience and local agriculture.
Senator Linda L. Ujifusa introduced the resolution, which notes the RIFPC was established in February 2011 and highlights the council’s role in fostering partnerships among volunteers, community organizations, government agencies, farmers and food businesses. The resolution also cites the council’s work in analyzing food systems and supporting the state’s food strategy.
In floor remarks accompanying the resolution, Senator Ujifusa said Rhode Island currently grows about 3% of its own food, a figure cited in the resolution text to underscore reliance on external supply chains and the importance of state support for local food systems. The resolution commends council staff and volunteers and authorizes the secretary of state to transmit certified copies of the resolution to the governor, legislative leaders and Rhode Island’s congressional delegation.
Several RIFPC members were introduced on the Senate floor, including Diane Lynch (president), Rebecca Kelly (food access and nutrition security work group), Angel Mendez (food business and economic development work group), and Tyson Botinis (climate and environment work group). Senator Valverde and others noted recent RIFPC events where the council presented a “good food” policy agenda and mentioned ongoing efforts such as an expanded composting bill being worked on with the council.
Senators moved and seconded the resolution and, after the clerk locked the machine, the ayes were called and the resolution passed by voice vote.
