EFFECTIVE Food Procurement Act

Key Points

• Would push USDA to buy a wider mix of foods that support small and newer farms, worker protections, animal welfare, and climate-smart practices.
• Aims to give schools and food banks more choices in USDA food programs, including options for religious or restricted diets.
• Requires USDA to track and report who it buys from and the climate pollution tied to that food, then set targets through 2032 to shift spending and cut emissions.
• Sets aside at least $2 million each year (2026–2031) for contracts with covered producers and food hubs, like small/medium farms and veteran or socially disadvantaged producers.
• Creates a “best value” buying pilot for at least 20% of USDA food spending, plus help and grants (up to $100,000) so smaller suppliers can meet food-safety rules and sell to USDA.