S.57 - Making Agricultural Products Locally Essential Act; MAPLE Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The MAPLE Act (S.57) aims to amend the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to include maple syrup under the Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program. This bill directs resources to allow seniors to purchase maple syrup at farmers' markets using nutrition program benefits. The bill was introduced in the Senate on January 9, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.
The primary goal is to support local agriculture and provide seniors with access to locally sourced maple syrup. The bill is presented as a way to enhance the existing Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program.
The short title of the bill is the "Making Agricultural Products Locally Essential Act" or the "MAPLE Act".
Expected Effects
If enacted, the MAPLE Act would expand the scope of the Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program. This expansion would allow eligible seniors to use their benefits to purchase maple syrup at participating farmers' markets.
This change could increase demand for maple syrup from local producers. It may also improve nutritional intake among participating seniors.
Ultimately, the effect would be to provide a modest boost to both the agricultural sector and the senior population.
Potential Benefits
- Supports local maple syrup producers by increasing demand for their products.
- Provides seniors with access to a locally sourced, potentially nutritious food item.
- May encourage healthier eating habits among seniors by making local produce more accessible.
- Could strengthen the connection between seniors and their local agricultural communities.
- Aligns with the broader goals of the Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program to improve nutrition and support local agriculture.
Potential Disadvantages
- The impact on overall senior nutrition may be limited due to the specific nature of maple syrup as a food item (high in sugar).
- Potential for increased administrative burden on the Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program.
- The financial impact on the program may be small, but it could divert funds from other nutritious foods.
- There might be regional disparities in benefits, as maple syrup production is concentrated in certain areas.
- The bill does not address broader issues of food insecurity or access to healthcare for seniors.
Constitutional Alignment
The MAPLE Act appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to support both seniors and local farmers. Specifically, the preamble of the Constitution states the goal to "promote the general Welfare".
Congress has the power to regulate commerce and provide for the general welfare through taxation and spending. This bill falls under Congress's enumerated powers.
There are no apparent constitutional conflicts, as the bill does not infringe on individual rights or state powers.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).