Our Work
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.
BILL TRACKER
This Bill Tracker is a reference, covering all legislation affecting the Rhode Island food system and all topics of interest to Council Members.
The Tracker is updated daily during the legislative session (January-June), and organized by major impact areas.
Latest Updates
JULY 16
2024 Legislative Session Debrief. READ MORE
APRIL 2
“Small & Urban Farms Success”, a legislative education, and advocacy video co-created by RIFPC members, Amelia & Rachel A., in support of SB2335 | HB7684, SB2496 | HB7550. WATCH HERE
MARCH 6
Nessa Richman, RIFPC Executive Director, met with the Rhode Island Governor and farmers across the state, continuing the fight for farmland preservation funding in Rhode Island. SEE IMAGES
FEBRUARY 21
Submitted letter to Senate President Ruggerio and House Speaker Shekarchi in support of tax exemptions for RI urban and small farms. READ THE LETTER
JANUARY 22
Letter to Senate President Ruggerio and House Speaker Shekarchi in support of tax relief for small and urban farmers on sales, income, and property. SIGN ON
JANUARY 18
Governor McKee files FY 2025 “Team Rhode Island” Budget. READ MORE
JANUARY 9
Letter to Governor McKee in support of including a tax credit for food donation in the 2025 budget. SIGN ON
DECEMBER 13
RIFPC meets with Senate President Shekarchi and House Majority Leader Blazjewski to discuss 2024 legislative priorities.
2023 Legislative Recap
This year’s progress reflected the efforts of engaged and dedicated food system activists, including RIFPC network members, mission-aligned individuals, organizations, and many of our legislators. Read RIFPC’s legislative recap for a breakdown of FY2023 tracked bills and resolutions in 2023. 2023 LEGISLATIVE RECAP
OUR POLICY PRIORITIES
Here’s what the state needs to do to create a more just and resilient food system by 2030.
Boost supports for local composting
Divert organic material from the landfill by funding and supporting community-based composting operations. Provide technical assistance to food scrap producers and ensure that Rhode Islanders have equitable access to composting options.
Related legislation: SB2753, HB7856
Incentivize surplus food donation
Create a tax credit for qualified taxpayers that donate food to Rhode Island organizations to address food insecurity, propel environmental sustainability, support local businesses and help make surplus food donation a common practice.
Related legislation: SB2757, HB7995
Preserve active farmland
Support land access for farming by ensuring consistent, adequate funding for the Agricultural Land Preservation Commission through the state’s Green Bond.
Related legislation: SB2496, HB7550
Provide healthy school meals for all
Make an investment in children by providing free breakfast and lunch to all students, while promoting local food purchasing and ensuring culturally appropriate menus.
Related legislation: SB2320, HB7400
Reduce tax burdens for urban
& small farmers
Strengthen urban and small farmers by ensuring farming operations remain competitive by reducing tax burdens.
Related legislation: SB2335, HB7684
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?