AN ACT Relating to fostering economic growth in Washington by supporting the in-state production, processing, and distribution of food supply; creating new sections; and providing an expiration date.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

(2) It is the intent of the legislature to engage in a collaborative process with local farmers, food processors, and food distributors to evaluate changes in state and local policies and the funding that is needed to foster resilience and growth in the local food sector. The legislature intends to develop and implement an economic development strategy to promote a more dependable, healthy local food supply and expand economic opportunities for Washington food producers, processors, and distributors. The legislature intends the economic benefits of these efforts to support and be a part of a greater food supply network linking small local farms, schools, farmers markets, food banks, shelters, and many other areas touched by issues surrounding fresh food access.

(2)(a) The study must identify a ten-year plan for expansion of the state's food production, processing, and distribution capacity by:

(i) Evaluating the state's capacity to produce a variety of food products given the state's environment and climate;

(ii) Assessing a potential market demand for an increased local food supply, through surveys of processors, distributors, and buyers;

(iii) Identifying infrastructure needs to support the local food industry, including processing capacity and transportation networks;

(iv) Assessing the institutional capacity of state agencies and organizations to foster economic growth in the food sector;

(v) Evaluating changes in state planning, permitting, environmental regulation, and financing to enhance food production, processing, and distribution; and

(vi) Identifying legislative actions needed to implement food system improvements.

(b) The recommendations of the study must include short and long-term action plans for the legislature to support and sustain the local food sector in Washington. The recommendations of the study may include specific legislative approaches, such as changes in state law, and nonlegislative approaches, such as action plans for state agencies and local governments.

(3) Washington State University must form an advisory committee to provide technical information, advice, and assistance in completing the study. The advisory committee must include representatives of farm organizations, food processors, food distributors, restaurateurs, food service directors, and local food advocacy organizations.

(4) Washington State University must submit to the governor and the appropriate committees of the legislature a final study report with findings and recommendations by November 30, 2018, and in compliance with RCW 43.01.036.

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