NEW MEXICO MEAT, CHEESE & PRODUCE IN SCHOOLS

This Senate Memorial (SM 19) requests the New Mexico Department of Agriculture and Public Education to form a work group aiming to develop a plan where 50% of beef, cheese, and milk served in public schools comes from New Mexico producers. The work group must include agricultural associations like the New Mexico Cattle Growers' Association and dairy producers, and provide recommendations to legislative committees by September 1, 2025. It directly affects public school food procurement and New Mexico agricultural businesses by promoting local sourcing. As a memorial (not binding legislation), it seeks to encourage state agencies to create a framework for increased local food procurement.