MGFPA represents the interests of Maine grocers, food producers and their industry partners at local, state and federal levels. We work diligently to establish legislative policy, lead and participate in coalitions, strengthen and continuously grow our active government relations committee, and maintain working relationships with the National Grocers Association (NGA) and the Food Industry Association (FMI).
We work to inform the business community on legislative bills that will directly impact their business. We form coalitions of businesses to fight and/or support various proposed laws. With testimony from business owners/managers and the efforts of our advocacy, we work to ensure Maine is a retail and food-friendly state.
Our advocacy work ensures you can remain competitive, focus on running your business and in return saves you money!
Legislative Successes:
128th Session: LD 725 ‘ An Act To Recognize Local Control Regarding Food Systems’
The Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee unanimously voted in support of an amended bill regarding the food sovereignty issue. Although it was a long day, the committee worked diligently to craft a compromise bill that will address not only the USDA’s concerns with meat and poultry, but we were able to include an expanded definition for food products to include milk or milk products, meat or meat products, poultry or poultry products, fish or fish products, seafood or seafood products, cider or juice, canned fruits or vegetables, or acidified foods. It also clarifies that the only allowed transactions are face-to-face transactions at the site of the food production. Lastly, and most importantly, it clarifies that anyone who produces food or food products for purposes other than direct producer-to-consumer transaction in a municipality that has an ordinance must comply with all state and federal food safety laws, rules and regulations.
