Newsom condemns USDA’s funding termination as irrational and harmful, demanding reversal to protect state farmers
Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom has formally appealed to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) after its unexpected decision to cut California’s Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) Program funds, a major action that has outraged the agriculture industry of California. This abrupt cessation comes despite the program’s crucial role in bolstering local farmers and aiding food-insecure families across the state.
A lifeline for many since its start in 2022, the LFPA Program has sent more than $88.5 million into the agriculture of the state, therefore enhancing the food supply chain and guaranteeing the delivery of high-quality, nutritious food to those most in need.
The initiative not only helped the local economy by buying directly from California’s farmers but also was rather important in the distribution of these products to schools and food banks. Though this has been surprisingly taken back, it was believed that an extra $47 million would be set aside for the next year.
Governor Newsom expressed his disappointment and concern at the USDA’s decision, emphasizing the potential adverse effects for the agricultural industry and the needy families relying on this assistance.
“The irrational and malicious slashing of funds will not only hurt our farmers, but also the families who need food banks and school meals to stay healthy and thrive,” said Newsom.
He called for an immediate reversal of the decision, which he deemed harmful and unfounded.
Echoing the Governor’s sentiments, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom emphasized the broader impact of the funding cut.
“Farmers, families, and schoolchildren rely on the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program to nourish our communities and strengthen our local food systems. Through California Farm to School, we’ve seen firsthand how these initiatives provide fresh, nutritious meals to families while supporting local growers,” she said.
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The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) claims the termination is based on a shift in agency goals, stating the deal “no longer effectuates agency priorities, and that termination of the award is appropriate.” Many people have questioned this reasoning, particularly because one of the USDA’s goals is to increase agricultural output to more effectively feed Americans.
This decision has a major influence. As a major agricultural state, California grows almost half of the nation’s fruits and vegetables. In 2024 alone, the LFPA Program set aside more than $22.3 million for the California Association of Food Banks, the program’s main partner, to offer 18,647,546 meals to Californians living in poverty. The end of this support endangers the supply of inexpensive, local food items and the viability of family-run farms.
Various California agricultural industry players expressed their disappointment and offered personal stories on the LFPA and related initiatives’ crucial importance in their operations and livelihoods. They describe the funding as not just financial support but a critical component of their ability to sustain their farms and contribute to their communities.
Governor Newsom’s call is an important battle not only for California’s agricultural sustainability but also for the health and welfare of its people. The result of this appeal could set notable precedents for how agricultural funding is handled federally, hence affecting local economies and food security all throughout the country.
