Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed legislation to permanently fund California’s Farm to School Program, ensuring children across the state continue to receive local farm-fresh nutritious school meals.

On July 13, the governor signed SB 172, which permanently establishes California’s nation-leading Farm to School Program into state law.

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom has championed California’s Farm to School Program to expand access to healthy, locally grown food for students. First launched in the 2021-22 budget, the Farm to School Incubator Grant program administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture supports sustainable, local food procurement, minimally processed school meals programs, and hands-on education for students.

With ongoing funding secured in Newsom’s 2026-27 state budget, in partnership with the Legislature, this program will continue to improve children’s health while strengthening local food systems and creating new opportunities for small and mid-sized farmers.

“California’s kids deserve access to school meals that are locally-sourced and full of nutrients to help them reach their full potential and thrive,” Siebel Newsom said, in a news release. “Our Farm to School Program has been a lifeline for children across the state, not only providing free, healthy meals but strengthening local economies through food worker training and supporting California farmers and producers.”

The initiative supports California farmers and local economies by helping schools purchase more food from nearby farms and producers, ensuring that more dollars stay within local communities.