Legislation to combat food insecurity, waste clears Community Development and Women’s Affairs Committee
Moen, Simmons, Bailey bill would provide a tax incentive for commercial farm operators to donate surplus fruits and vegetables to local food banks
NEW JERSEY— The Assembly Community Development and Women’s Affairs Committee recently advanced Bill A3899, which would create a pilot program to give commercial farmers tax credits when they donate excess fruits and vegetables to a charitable organization located in New Jersey.
In addition to supporting the state’s agriculture industry, this bill would also aid local food banks in the fight against food insecurity, a priority for Assembly Democrats. Assembly members William F. Moen, Jr., Heather Simmons, and Dave Bailey, Jr. sponsored the legislation.
“Food banks depend on the generosity of others, and through this legislation, we will bridge even greater partnerships between commercial farmers and those helping feed their communities,” said Moen (D-Camden, Gloucester). “New Jersey farms are often left with additional crops that will ultimately spoil before they can be consumed. This bill allows farmers to make use of that extra food while also reducing their business costs.”
Under this bill, the State of New Jersey would incentivize farmers to donate fresh fruits and vegetables to local charities by offering up to $5,000 annually in tax credits. The legislation would require the Director of the Division of Taxation in the Department of the Treasury to prepare an annual report on the utilization of the credits provided under the bill.
“Looking around South Jersey, it is easy to see we’re surrounded by remarkable agricultural growth. At times, these farms are fortunate to reap a harvest that is greater than the need of the market,” said Simmons (D-Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland). “We’re here to help ensure that any additional food reaches those who need it and by offering a tax credit, we are able to extend our gratitude to the participating farmers.”
“I have visited with farmers in our district who have told me they would love to produce more fruits and vegetables, but they are limited by market demand,” said Bailey (D-Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland). “This is a practical bill that supports our local farmers while allowing them to provide for their neighbors in need.”
