The disaster in East Palestine has residents concerned about their food, water, and safety. Many others across the country deal with food insecurity, and while disasters like this aren’t needed to create these issues, they certainly exasperate them.
The solution is food freedom.
Government regulation of food hinders entrepreneurship, stifles the free market, and contributes to food waste and food scarcity. We recognize that the freedom to choose what we eat is essential to our well-being and survival.
By removing government barriers to local food production and exchange, we can empower communities to create sustainable food systems, reduce waste, strengthen local economies and secure access to healthy and affordable food options, especially in times of crisis and emergency.
Please use this sample ordinance to help take the fight for food freedom to the local level. If the ordinance gets blocked by your local government, consider running for office to help it pass!
CLICK HERE TO HELP US FUND CANDIDATES READY TO TAKE ACTION LIKE THIS AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
AN ORDINANCE PROMOTING FOOD FREEDOM IN [CITY/ TOWN]
WHEREAS, every individual has the right to choose what they eat, and to purchase and consume food from the source of their choosing without interference, coercion, or regulation from any third party,
WHEREAS, local producers and entrepreneurs should have the freedom to produce and sell food directly to consumers without undue government interference,
WHEREAS, the residents of [City/Town] value access to locally produced food and the ability to purchase and sell homemade and small-scale food products without government interference,
WHEREAS, current state and local food regulations may be overly burdensome for small-scale food producers and limit consumer choice,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the [City/Town] Council that:
This municipality recognizes the fundamental right of individuals to choose the foods they eat, and the right of local food producers to sell their products directly to consumers without excessive regulation.
This ordinance prohibits any government entity from interfering with the direct farm-to-consumer exchange of food and food products produced and sold within the municipality, including but not limited to zoning restrictions, licensing requirements, and inspections.
This ordinance also nullifies any state or federal food regulations that violate the rights of individuals and local food producers within this municipality.
We urge all local businesses, consumers, and residents to support the freedom of food choice and to reject any attempts to impose undue regulations on local food production and sales.
*This is just an example and should be adapted to fit the specific needs and circumstances of your municipality.
