Bill Summary
The resolution designates the week of August 3 through August 9, 2025, as "National Farmers Market Week." It highlights the significant economic contributions of farmers markets, which generated $1.7 billion in income for U.S. farmers in 2020 and have seen substantial growth in number since 1994. The resolution emphasizes the educational role of farmers markets in connecting urban and rural communities, promoting sustainable farming practices, and improving health and wellness for low-income individuals who benefit from federal nutrition programs. By establishing this week, the resolution aims to raise awareness of the essential functions that farmers markets serve in enhancing food access, supporting local economies, and fostering community relationships. Congress is called to support this designation and acknowledge the vital impact of farmers markets on various stakeholders, including farmers, food producers, and consumers.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the designation of the week of August 3 through August 9, 2025, as "National Farmers Market Week" could affect people:
1. **Increased Awareness and Participation**: The designation of National Farmers Market Week would likely lead to heightened awareness among consumers about the benefits of shopping at farmers markets. This could encourage more people to visit these markets, leading to increased sales for local farmers and food producers. As more consumers engage with these markets, it could foster a stronger sense of community and support for local agriculture.
2. **Economic Benefits for Farmers and Local Economies**: With the recognition of this week, farmers markets may see a rise in attendance, resulting in more income for farmers. This influx of business can enhance the economic viability of small farms and contribute positively to local economies. The resolution highlights that farmers markets generated significant income for farmers; therefore, increased patronage during this week could provide a substantial boost to their earnings.
3. **Promotion of Health and Nutrition**: National Farmers Market Week could also enhance the visibility of farmers markets as vital sources of fresh and healthy food, particularly for low-income communities that rely on federal nutrition benefits. By focusing on the health benefits and accessibility of fresh produce, this initiative may encourage healthier eating habits among consumers and improve overall community health outcomes. Furthermore, educational activities during this week could inform the public about sustainable farming practices and nutrition, promoting a better understanding of food sources and health.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 638 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. RES. 638
Designating the week of August 3 through August 9, 2025, as ``National
Farmers Market Week''.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
August 5, 2025
Mr. Valadao (for himself, Mr. Bishop, Ms. Tokuda, Ms. Brown, Mrs.
Hayes, Ms. Budzinski, Mr. Davis of North Carolina, Ms. Davids of
Kansas, Mr. Costa, Ms. Adams, and Ms. Underwood) submitted the
following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on
Agriculture
_______________________________________________________________________
RESOLUTION
Designating the week of August 3 through August 9, 2025, as ``National
Farmers Market Week''.
Whereas farmers markets accounted for $1,700,000,000 in income for farmers of
the United States in 2020, demonstrating the crucial role of farmers
markets in local economies;
Whereas, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service of the Department of
Agriculture, the number of farmers markets in the United States rose
from 1,755 in 1994 to 8,771 in 2019, an average growth of nearly 7
percent per year;
Whereas farmers markets serve as significant educational sites and as bridges
between urban and rural communities, contributing to a better public
understanding of farming and ranching;
Whereas the adoption of more sustainable farming practices is closely associated
with farmer-to-consumer interactions facilitated by farmers markets;
Whereas farmers markets and direct marketing farmers help improve the health and
wellness of low-income people in the United States who receive Federal
nutrition benefits;
Whereas National Farmers Market Week is a time to recognize the unique and
indispensable role farmers markets play in supporting food access,
bolstering local economies, promoting healthy communities, and fostering
sustainable farming; and
Whereas the establishment of August 3 through August 9, 2025, as ``National
Farmers Market Week'' would raise awareness for these important markets:
Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That Congress--
(1) supports the designation of ``National Farmers Market
Week''; and
(2) recognizes the vital role that farmers markets play in
bringing communities together and in supporting the livelihoods
of millions of people in the United States, from farmers and
food producers to consumers.
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