Goal 23: Regulations and enforcement capacity will ensure food safety, be scale appropriate, and allow Vermont food enterprises to increase production and expand their market outlets.

The existing regulatory structure is an amalgam of federal, state, and local municipal laws and rules. The food system is governed by a series of federal regulations that sometimes offer exemptions for small businesses and small farms. Meanwhile, state agencies and departments work with the governor and the general assembly to create state regulations that are separate from the federal regulations. In addition, local municipalities develop zoning and other ordinances that may affect the food system. Maintenance of a credible and accountable federal and state regulatory structure is essential for the continued expansion of Vermont’s food system.

Our key indicator for Goal 23 is a summary of food system legislation annually passed by the Vermont Legislature.