Senators demand restoration of $1 billion for local food programs

Senator Angus King and other lawmakers are asking the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to restore funding that was recently cut from programs supporting local food sources for schools and community organizations. They argue that a $1 billion reduction in the Local Food Purchase Assistance and Local Food for Schools programs will hurt communities across the country at a time when food prices are rising, and many families rely on food assistance. Representative Chellie Pingree organized a group of over 80 House Democrats who expressed serious concern about these cuts in a separate letter to the USDA. They believe it is irresponsible to cut funding when farmers are facing higher costs and grocery prices remain high. The Maine Department of Education had expected to receive about $2.78 million over three years from these programs, which would have helped many in the state, especially children. Both letters sent to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins included questions about the impact of the cuts and how the funds would be reassigned. House members want to know the total amount of funding cut and how the USDA will support the states and farmers affected. The senators also questioned when states last received reimbursements and whether previous assessments were done on the impact of the cancellation. Some local leaders, like Rep. Jared Golden and Maine School Nutrition Association President Caroline Trinder, voiced their opposition to the funding cuts. Trinder highlighted how the funding allowed local school districts to buy healthy food from Maine farmers. Heather Paquette from Good Shepherd Food Bank also warned that the cuts could greatly affect their ability to meet growing community needs. The USDA explained that the cuts are part of a shift towards more long-term financial planning, but they did not specify which new initiatives would take precedence. Many participants in the programs, including those in 40 states, were informed that their agreements would not be honored. The announcement has raised significant concern among lawmakers and community leaders in Maine and beyond.