Coalition raises farmland protection, PFAS, composting and market concerns as legislative priorities
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Summary
NOFA and coalition members outlined additional priorities for the session: farmland protection tied to Act 181 regional planning implementation, PFAS and potential H.303 action to restrict land application of sewage sludge, outstanding Act 41 rulemaking for on‑farm composting, concerns about hemp/cannabis market structure, and support for federal clarification on off‑farm slaughter.
Coalition presenters used the hearing to flag multiple interrelated agricultural policy items they consider priorities for the legislative session.
Farmland protection and land‑use maps: Speakers urged that Act 181 implementation (future land‑use maps) include explicit agricultural planning so that regional planning commissions and municipalities identify and protect land suitable for farming rather than produce a misleading "green space" picture without enforceable protections.
PFAS and sewage sludge: Coalition members raised concerns about PFAS chemicals in land‑applied sewage sludge and referenced prior house bill H.303 as an example of efforts to address consumer and soil contamination risks. They urged caution and suggested a safety‑net for farmers if restrictions remove land‑application options.
On‑farm composting rules (Act 41): Speakers noted Act 41 (2021) redefined on‑farm composting as farming, but said required rulemaking updates have not been incorporated into the Agency of Agriculture's rules; they asked the agency to complete rulemaking so new producers have clear guidance.
Market structure and hemp/cannabis: Coalition members described market dynamics that disadvantage small producers, including past contract failures in the hemp market and retail vertical integration in cannabis that can restrict producers' ability to sell. A presenter cited research suggesting legal markets capture roughly 30% of sales while 70% remain illicit in some states.
Off‑farm slaughter and federal legislation: The coalition noted bipartisan federal bills under consideration to clarify and protect off‑farm/custom slaughter options, which advocates say would help small livestock producers build viable businesses.
Speakers recommended follow‑up briefings with experts and additional testimony to inform legislative choices; the committee asked staff to coordinate future presentations.