New Markets for Farmers and Families Act

This bill reauthorizes and significantly enhances the farmers' markets and local food promotion program under the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, aiming to strengthen local food systems and encourage new market opportunities for farmers. A key provision increases the program's authorized funding from $50,000,000 to $100,000,000 , extending current funding levels through fiscal year 2026 and authorizing $50,000,000 annually thereafter. Crucially, 30 percent of these funds are reserved for priority grants to entities establishing new farmers' markets that have not received prior program funding within the last three years. The legislation also modifies the matching funds requirement, generally mandating a 25 percent cash or in-kind contribution from grant recipients, but waiving this for certain priority grants. Additionally, it mandates reports from the Secretary of Agriculture and the Inspector General within three years, detailing program participation, grant awards, and any instances of fraud or abuse.