Keep Food Local and Affordable Act of 2021

Keep Food Local and Affordable Act of 2021

This bill freezes the minimum wage for H-2A (temporary agricultural workers) in certain states through December 31, 2022.

Specifically, the bill prohibits an increase to the adverse effect wage rate for H-2A workers in any state (1) that had an unemployment rate of not more than 5% in the Bureau of Labor Statistics' August 2021 report; or (2) where the food price index, according to bureau reports, increased by more than 3% between December 2020 and September 2021 and the governor requests a freeze to the adverse effect wage rate.

(Generally, the minimum wage for an H-2A worker is the highest of the adverse effect wage rate, the prevailing hourly wage or piece rate, the federal minimum wage, or the applicable state minimum wage.)

Bill 117 HR 5887, also known as the Keep Food Local and Affordable Act of 2021, aims to address issues related to food access and affordability in the United States. The bill focuses on supporting local food systems and small-scale farmers while also ensuring that all Americans have access to healthy and affordable food options.

One key aspect of the bill is the establishment of grant programs to support local food producers, such as farmers markets, community-supported agriculture programs, and food hubs. These grants would help these producers expand their operations, improve infrastructure, and reach more consumers in their communities.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to increase access to healthy food options in underserved communities, such as low-income neighborhoods and rural areas. This includes funding for programs that provide incentives for purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as support for community gardens and urban agriculture initiatives. The Keep Food Local and Affordable Act of 2021 also addresses issues related to food waste and sustainability. The bill includes measures to reduce food waste at the production, distribution, and consumer levels, as well as support for sustainable farming practices that promote soil health and environmental conservation. Overall, this legislation aims to promote a more equitable and sustainable food system in the United States, while also supporting local farmers and businesses. By investing in local food systems and increasing access to healthy food options, the bill seeks to improve the health and well-being of all Americans.