An Act promoting equity in agriculture

HD 2703 establishes a special commission to study and recommend policies promoting equity in Massachusetts agriculture for historically excluded groups, including African Americans, Cape Verdeans, Hispanics, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, Caribbean Islanders, Native Americans, and Alaskan Natives. The commission, with members appointed from diverse agricultural organizations, caucuses, and commissions, will investigate data collection, grant access, program equity, and regulatory processes, holding at least three public hearings (including one rural and one urban). It must file a report with legislative leaders by December 31, 2027, including recommendations for policy changes, with the findings publicly available online. This bill creates a study body - not direct policy changes - to address systemic barriers in agricultural resources and opportunities.