Senate Leadership
April 20, 2006
Williams Heralds Senate Passage of Farmers' Market Bill
State Senator Donald E. Williams, Jr. (D-Brooklyn) today helped lead the Senate passage of a bill which would increase the availability of locally-grown met and produce throughout the state, strengthening the recognition that farmers markets are legitimate venues for local economic development and will help increase the viability of small farm businesses. The bill passed the Senate and now moves on to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
"This bill will provide a clear definition of a farmers' market, which will provide guidance for local officials. It will also clarify that a farmers' kiosk at a market is an extension of the farm," Sen. Williams explained. "People who may not be able to make it to the rural areas of our state to purchase freshly-grown, local products will be able to do so at a more convenient location."
S.B. 294, "An Act Concerning Farmers' Markets" requires farmers who sell products at an authorized farmers' market kiosk to get and maintain any required license to sell the products and comply with state regulations on the sale of farm products on a farm. The bill also defines an "authorized farmers' market" as one that can participate in the Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program. Farmers in Connecticut have about 16 weeks to make a year's living and if enacted, the bill will help farmers in the state increase the availability of their local products throughout the state.
"Fresh, locally grown products are especially popular in the spring and summertime months," Sen. Williams said. "It's important that we maintain the viability of family farms in Connecticut."
Sen. Williams serves the 29th district communities of Brooklyn, Canterbury, Killingly, Mansfield, Putnam, Scotland, Thompson and Windham.
|
Senator Williams’ Larry Cook |
Listing of Leadership’s recent press releases. |
Senator Looney’s Larry Cook |
