Yesterday, Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08) introduced the Providing Robust Organics and Diets for Urban Communities Everywhere (PRODUCE) Act during a visit to LifeCap Farms, a leading sustainable mushroom farm in Jersey City. Announced just days before Thanksgiving, the legislation would support urban agriculture, increase resources available to urban producers, and expand access to fresh, healthy food for families across the country.
“Urban agriculture strengthens our communities by increasing access to nutritious food and supporting local businesses,” said Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08). “As we approach Thanksgiving, far too many families still struggle to access fresh, healthy options. Operations like LifeCap Farms show how community-rooted, innovative agriculture can meet these challenges head-on. The PRODUCE Act would give urban growers the tools they need to expand urban production, reinforce local food networks, and ensure every family has access to the high-quality foods that they deserve.”
The PRODUCE Act would significantly expand the capacity of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (“OUAIP”) by doubling its authorization for discretionary funding to $50 million per year. The OUAIP was created under the 2018 Farm Bill to support the rapid growth of urban and suburban farming. Its grant program funds projects focused on food access, education, start-up support, and policy development. Due to high demand, however, OUAIP can only supply grants and technical assistance to a fraction of applicants.
Congressman Rob Menendez also introduced this legislation during the 118th Congress.
Founded in 2018 by New Jersey native Baris Sonmez, LifeCap Farms operates out of a 6,000-square-foot warehouse using proprietary, resource-efficient technology to grow gourmet mushrooms year-round. In addition to distributing fresh and processed mushroom products, the farm runs a bi-weekly Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) mushroom box and hosts school tours to teach students about nutrition, sustainability, and the science behind mushroom cultivation.
For full text of the bill, click here.???
Congressman Rob Menendez has represented New Jersey’s Eighth Congressional District in Congress since 2023. He serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Subcommittees on the Environment, Energy, and Communications and Technology.??
