Hi Friend,
Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund (FTCLDF) continues to represent its members and push for policy changes that would help our membership. This week, I just wanted to highlight two of these efforts:
During these unprecedented times when many are concerned about their job security, homeschooling for the first time, and their food supply, you might think that regulators would ease up on the small farmers producing food for their communities. Well, in mid-March, with COVID-19 concerns escalating but before the state stay-at-home order, a local Virginia Health Department came after FTCLDF farmer members Jess and Logan Peck of Rooster Dirt Farm for what’s still a mystery. The Pecks didn’t receive a notice from the Health Department, but instead they kept hearing from the government agency second hand when chefs and store owners told them that inspectors had come by to confiscate their farm’s product. Unfortunately, this isn’t the only emergency phone call we’ve received from a member since this COVID-19 crisis began. Read Rooster Dirt Farm’s full story and learn how we helped HERE.
Also, in case you missed it, I encourage you to check out our action alert on the PRIME Act. Corporate meat processors are shutting down because of illness to its workforce, allowing custom slaughter facilities to step in and serve small producers. The PRIME Act would greatly improve access to a healthy, local meat supply. We emailed you an easy, step-by-step action alert last week, and you can access it HERE.
I hope you continue to be happy and healthy. Thank you for all you do to improve the food supply and interest in local, wholesome foods.
Alexia Kulwiec
Executive Director
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