LANSING – A plan proposed by State Representative Lee Gonzales (D-Flint Township) that would make it easier for school districts to purchase food from local farmers for school lunch programs is headed to the Governor for her signature.
"This plan is critical for expanding market opportunities for Michigan farmers and keeping more dollars in our state," Gonzales said. "Given the economic hardships the citizens of Michigan and Genesee County have been faced with, this plan has the potential to boost our local economy and improve the overall health of our children."
Gonzales' plan, approved with overwhelming bipartisan support earlier this month, will help streamline the bidding process for school food administrators by increasing schools districts' small purchase threshold (SPT) for food procurement to $100,000, up from $20,959. The SPT is the dollar value above which competitive, formal bids must be obtained for purchases. Purchases below the SPT may be obtained through a simple informal bidding process in which schools may accept bids or quotes in writing or by phone, typically from at least three vendors.
Michigan's current SPT has proven to be a barrier for school food authorities who want to increase fresh and local food because it makes the bidding process more onerous, which often prevents schools from purchasing food from local farmers.
Purchasing locally grown food from local farmers for school meal programs – known as "farm to school" – has other benefits. It can provide schoolchildren with greater access to fresh fruits and vegetables, hands-on educational opportunities about local agriculture and food systems, expanded market opportunities for Michigan farmers and economic development opportunities.
"By implementing the higher threshold in Michigan, children will have greater access to fresh and locally grown food," Gonzales said. "When our children fuel up on healthy foods they are able to focus on their school work and prepare themselves for the good-paying jobs of the 21st century. This plan will help our schools provide the best possible food for our students at lunchtime."