Priorities
Policy
Policy for Progress
When policy and regulatory change are called for, the RI Food Policy Council acts as both a forum for issues and a platform for coordinated action. Our policy work is grounded in our vision of a just and resilient food system — one in which all Rhode Islanders have enough to eat and our local farm, fish, and food businesses are thriving.
The Council’s annual legislative priorities are based on members’ interests and advocacy goals. Work groups discuss policy priorities at the beginning of the Council year (Summer), and are officially set each Fall using a modified consensus decision-making process. For the rest of the year (through June) we work to educate and advocate for them.
We want to work with Rhode Islanders who want to promote good food policy and strengthen the capacity of our local and regional food system. Learn More
News & Updates
OUR POLICY PRIORITIES
Here’s what the state needs to do to create a more just and resilient food system by 2030.
Compost Fund Campaign
Establish a compost fund to support composting through a surcharge on landfill-bound waste. Rhode Island has a choice — waste or wealth.
Urban and Small Farm Success Campaign
Exempt certain urban and small farms from specific state taxes. All Rhode Island farmers deserve a fair chance to succeed.
Food Donation Tax Credit Campaign
Introduce a tax credit for those who donate surplus food. Cut down waste, nourish communities, and boost businesses.
Good Food Purchasing Campaign
Create new policies and incentives to increase institutional food procurement that prioritizes local economies, environmental sustainability, a valued workforce, and equity.Put our state dollars to work building a more just and resilient local food economy.
Stabilize and Support SNAP Campaign
Increase capacity at state- and community-based agencies to minimize harm of new SNAP requirements.Protect Rhode Islanders’ ability to purchase the food they want and need.
Generate New Revenue to Support Food Security Campaign
Update tax policies to increase funding available for food security and other needs of the Rhode Island community.Make sure RI has the resources to meet the needs of our communities and the state.
Keep Agriculture Receipts for Agricultural Purposes Campaign
Ensure fees associated with farming operations come back to DEM for the benefit of our agricultural sector.Help our farmers, preserve our land, bolster our economy.
Advocacy is for All
Driven by a vision of a just and resilient food system, the RI Food Policy Council champions ‘Advocacy for All,’ ensuring every Rhode Islander can actively shape the food policies affecting our communities. Join this movement, and advocate for a food future where equity and sustainability are central to community success and health.
The Council welcomes opportunities to discuss these priorities. Please reach out.
Your legislators are listening! Do you want to make your voice heard at the State House?