The MAPLE Act adds maple syrup to the list of foods that low-income seniors can buy through a federal program called the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). Right now, this program gives eligible seniors vouchers or coupons they can spend at farmers' markets, farm stands, and community gardens to purchase fresh, locally-grown produce like fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey. By including maple syrup, seniors would now be able to use their vouchers to buy this product as well. This is a straightforward expansion of what foods the program covers, making it easier for older adults on limited incomes to access maple syrup from local producers while supporting farmers in their communities.

MAPLE Act

Welch, Peter

Making Agricultural Products Locally Essential Act or the&nbsp;MAPLE ActThis bill includes maple syrup as one of the eligible&nbsp;foods under the&nbsp;Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP).&nbsp;The Department of Agriculture's&nbsp;SFMNP provides grants to participating states to provide low-income seniors with coupons/vouchers that&nbsp;may be used at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community supported agriculture programs to purchase eligible foods (i.e., fresh, nutritious, locally-grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey).