Strengthening Local Food Security Act of 2025

The Strengthening Local Food Security Act of 2025 would create a new program under the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 called the Strengthening Local Food Security Program. The program loans and distributes federal funding to eligible units of government (states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and Tribal governments) to purchase food from local and regional producers and distribute it within their jurisdictions (including to hunger-relief groups and to schools through existing nutrition programs). The aim is to bolster local food systems, improve food security, and strengthen the capacity of food banks, schools, and childcare institutions to access and provide locally produced, healthier foods. The bill sets criteria for who can participate, how funds are allocated, purchasing requirements, reporting, and the use of funds, including a strong emphasis on local sourcing, community engagement, and technical assistance to producers. Funding is mandatory from the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) at $200 million per year from 2025 through 2029, with additional authorization of $200 million per year for the same period. Allocation is noncompetitive and includes a fixed tribal allocation, a small state allocation, and a remainder distributed through a specified formula. The program requires that most funds go toward purchases from “covered producers” (including small/mid-sized, beginning, veteran, and underserved producers) and prioritizes underserved communities. Subcontracts and subawards are allowed to support partnerships, and recipients must provide food safety training or certification options (not a Federal certification) and substantial technical assistance to producers. Recipients must report on procurement and distribution and expend funds within three years of award.