The Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved legislation Friday to require all Farmer’s Markets accept CalFresh EBT cards, formerly food stamps.
The ordinance is aimed at providing low-income residents equal access to healthy produce offered at farmers’ markets. Currently only 47% of the estimated 58 certified farmers’ markets in Los Angeles accept Calfresh EBT cards.
In a recent story about the Boyle Heights Farmer’s Market, youth reporter Ariana Palominos reported that the market currently has only one produce vendor, and does not accept EBT cards.
District 14 Councilman Jose Huizar worked with the LA Food Policy Council and LACAN on the proposal after they approached his office with the idea.
“It is a small action, that will have a huge impact for individuals and families citywide” said Huizar in a statement. “By requiring EBT at all farmers markets, e are one step closer to closing the gap in food access and addressing food insecurity for low-income Angelenos.”
On Tuesday, Councilman Huizar and the LA Food Policy Council will host a sign-up fair on the City Hall steps to enable farmers’ markets to begin using EBT technology as soon as possible.
For more information on the importance of EBT access at farmers markets or the implementation process, please see LAFPC’s EBT at Farmers Markets Frequently Asked Questions.
