STATEHOUSE – House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1039, co-authored by State Representative Greg Beumer (R-Modoc), was signed into law by Governor Mike Pence. HEA 1039 establishes the Indiana Grown Initiative, which will market and promote Indiana-produced agricultural products. This legislation calls for the establishment of a commission comprised of Indiana residents and marketing experts, as well as representatives from the agriculture industry, local retailers, farmers' markets and restaurants. “Given our longstanding tradition of agricultural success, I was shocked to learn that Indiana imports nearly 90 percent of its food,” said Rep. Beumer. “This initiative is about developing an Indiana-centric brand that will allow us to promote our locally grown products throughout the state and beyond.” The commission will meet throughout the year to brainstorm opportunities for connecting producers with local vendors and promoting their goods. Many other states promote their locally produced goods with similar initiatives. For example, South Carolina has seen $265 million in new economic value and $23 million in new tax revenue generated as a result of their program. “I am extremely proud to have been able to play a small part in the advancement of the Indiana Grown Initiative,” said Rep. Beumer. “As a freshman legislator, it was important to me that I find a way to promote the very Hoosier farmers and agriculture which are the backbone of our community. I believe that this legislation will do just that.” -30- |
