ORGANIC FOOD PRODUCTION – SB 404

Instructs Oregon State University Extension Service to establish certain new positions related to organic production and maintain certain existing position related to organic production] expand Center for Small Farms and Community Food Systems through certain hiring.

Prohibits Oregon Health Authority from removing, on basis of cost, organic food products from list of foods approved under Women, Infants and Children Program.

Directs Oregon Business Development Department to establish grant program for purpose of facilitating infrastructure to support organic food production.

Directs Oregon Business Development Department to conduct market analysis of Oregon organic market.

Directs State Department of Agriculture to promote Oregon organic agriculture through department’s Buy Oregon Agriculture program] create certain new positions.

Directs State Department of Agriculture to establish organics program area.

Establishes Organic Action Plan Task Force to study issues related to organic food production. Requires task force to submit biannual reports containing recommendations for legislation to committee or interim committee of Legislative Assembly related to agriculture.]

Takes effect on 91st day following adjournment sine die.

Chief Sponsor(s): Senator Prozanski

Regular Sponsor(s): Senator Golden, (Presession filed.)

Advocates: