Farm bill proposals aim to expand support for tribal food programs
Proposed farm bill provisions would help tribal governments buy locally grown foods while supporting Indigenous farmers and preserving traditional food systems
Farm bill proposals under consideration in Congress would create permanent programs allowing state and tribal governments to purchase food from local and regional producers, according to reporting from the Associated Press. The proposals follow the Trump administration's decision in March 2025 to end two U.S. Department of Agriculture programs that helped tribes purchase culturally significant foods from local producers. Both the House and Senate proposals would dedicate 10% of program funding to tribes.
Tribal farmers and advocates said permanent funding would provide more certainty for small producers while helping preserve Indigenous food systems, according to the Associated Press reporting. Dawn and Cassius Spears, who operate Ashawaug Farm in Rhode Island, said the programs supported the distribution of traditional foods and strengthened cultural connections. Supporters also said long-term funding would help producers plan for future growing seasons and expand access to locally grown foods in tribal communities.
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