PAXTON SUGGS, FARM DIRECTOR OF STEWART HOUSE URBAN FARM AND GARDEN (LEFT) AND TONY VAN GORP of Purdue Extension-Lake County VISIT THE VETERANS VILLAGE GARDEN in Gary (2019 File photo)
Rep. Harris bill would exempt urban farmers from paying property taxes
Contributed By:The 411 News
Agriculture can stimulate economic growth, careers, and increase food access in urban areas
Indiana's urban farmers will get a boost with legislation sponsored by State Rep. Earl Harris, Jr. (D-East Chicago).
The bill, HB 1283, creates urban agricultural zones for farmers who grow, process, or distribute food products and the farmers will be exempt from paying property taxes.
"Agriculture is a key part of Indiana's economy, but Hoosiers in urban areas like East Chicago may not feel like they can participate in it because of their surroundings," Harris said.
The term "urban agriculture zone" does not include roof top gardening or farming practices that occur on the top of a building or in a residential home.
"There are many benefits to expanding agriculture to these urban areas. Young people would learn about the science involved and realize this is a career opportunity," Rep. Harris said. "Restaurants would have access to locally-sourced, healthy produce. I think this kind of legislation, that offers hope and opportunity, is much-needed after the year we've all had."
Harris also highlighted the impact this legislation could have on COVID-19 recovery.
As part of his research for HB 1283, Harris toured urban agricultural sites in Indianapolis with Purdue University last November. Many of these sites donated significant portions of their produce to local food banks, which have seen increased demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"I commend Indianapolis's urban farmers for not only breaking down barriers, but for stepping up and helping their communities during this difficult time," Harris explained.
"Food deserts are a growing issue in urban areas. Now combine that with the financial strains associated with COVID-19, and people are really hurting," Harris said. "We need a long-term solution for our state's food insecurity issues and I believe urban agricultural zones are a step in the right direction."
HB 1283 passed unanimously through the House. It will now be referred to the Senate for consideration.
Story Posted:02/25/2021
|
