S. 1145: Farmers’ Market Expansion Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Farmers’ Market Expansion Act of 2025, aims to amend an existing law related to nutritional assistance for seniors. Specifically, it seeks to expand the types of food that can be purchased using benefits under the Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program. The following are the key components of the bill:

Key Amendments to the Program

The main change proposed by the bill is the inclusion of tree nuts in the list of eligible foods that seniors can buy at farmers' markets. The current law mentions only certain items and does not include tree nuts. The bill will:

• Remove the phrase "and herbs" from the existing legislation.
• Add "herbs, and tree nuts (including shelled tree nuts)" to the list of authorized products for purchase by seniors under the program.

Impact on Seniors

The inclusion of tree nuts is expected to provide seniors with greater access to healthy food options. Tree nuts are often recognized for their nutritional benefits, which include healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. This change aims to enhance the dietary choices available to seniors using the program.

Implementation

To implement this amendment, adjustments will need to be made at the regulatory level to ensure that the expanded list of eligible items is recognized and that participating vendors at farmers' markets can accept benefits for tree nuts. This may involve updating guidelines and educating vendors about the new provisions.

Background of the Program

The Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program is designed to provide low-income seniors with coupons that can be used to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and now tree nuts, at farmers' markets. The program not only supports the nutritional needs of seniors but also aims to strengthen local agriculture by encouraging purchases from local farmers.

Goals of the Legislation

• Enhance nutritional options for seniors.
• Promote the consumption of healthy foods.
• Support local farmers by increasing the range of products available in farmers' markets.

Relevant Companies

None found