Local Farms and Food Act of 2023

The Local Farms and Food Act of 2023 reforms the Local Agriculture Market Program to better support local food systems. It redefines "food hub" to include businesses coordinating local food distribution and creates simplified grant applications for projects under $100,000, such as farmers market staffing or equipment purchases. The bill increases annual funding for the program to $75 million (2024-2028) and expands the Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program with $20.6 million annually for the same period. It also raises the federal share for nutrition incentive programs from 50% to 75% and adds a healthcare-experienced panel to review produce prescription applications. These changes directly affect local food hubs, farmers, seniors accessing nutrition benefits, and community food system projects.