Governor Bentley Signs Bill To Get Schools To Buy Locally

Montgomery, AL – Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley has signed into law a bill that's designed to make it easier for local farmers to sell their produce to Alabama public schools.

The Farm to School Procurement Act, signed by the governor Wednesday, requires the state Agriculture Department and the state Department of Education to investigate the potential for schools to purchase local farm products. The House sponsor of the bill, Democratic state Rep. Elaine Beech of Chatom said the law calls for schools to provide training to lunchroom staff on how prepare the fresh food.

Beech said the law will help children receive healthier meals and provide famers with a new market to sell the produce.

The governor also signed a bill by Beech that provides for training for local school board members..

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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