CalFresh 'EBT' Cuts May Include Farmers Markets in June

In a concerning development for California's food security, Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed state budget for 2024-2025 includes significant cuts that threaten the livelihoods of CalFresh recipients and the future of numerous farmers markets across the state.

Photo byCalFresh

The budget outlines a drastic reduction of $33.2 million from the Market Match program's $35 million funding, jeopardizing a vital initiative that has supported low-income families and local agriculture since 2017.

Market Match has been instrumental in doubling the purchasing power of over 500,000 CalFresh recipients at participating farmers markets, fostering healthier eating habits and bolstering local economies.

This potential cut not only undermines food access for individuals earning less than $18,954 annually but also disrupts the economic stability of local farmers who have benefited from the increased spending at their stalls.

Mobilizing

As budget negotiations progress, a coalition of stakeholders, including policymakers, agricultural producers, and food policy advocates, is mobilizing to safeguard Market Match. Farmers in places like Fresno, Kern, Monterey, Colusa and Tulare counties could be hit the hardest.

Timeline

The decision, expected next month, will have far-reaching implications for California's agricultural landscape and its efforts to combat food insecurity among its most vulnerable populations.

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Link Sources:

• https://ebudget.ca.gov/budget/2024-25/#/Home
• https://capitalandmain.com/california-plans-to-eliminate-a-healthful-food-program-that-has-served-both-farmers-and-low-income-residents
• https://www.cdss.ca.gov/ebt-card
• https://www.cdss.ca.gov/calfresh