Amendment ID: S3029-9

Amendment 9

MDAR Five‑Year Strategic Plan

Messrs. Tarr and Eldridge move that the proposed new draft be amended by inserting after section _ the following section:-

"SECTION _. The department of agricultural resources shall develop and publish a five-year strategic plan to guide the commonwealth’s agricultural policy and investments. The plan shall include measurable goals and strategies related to farmland preservation, climate resilience, agricultural viability, technical assistance, and the strengthening of the local and regional food system.

Annually, not later than December 31, the commissioner shall submit a progress report detailing actions taken to implement the strategic plan, including accomplishments, challenges, and any adjustments made to meet the plan’s goals.

The department shall update the plan every five years and shall submit the plan, and any subsequent updates, to the clerks of the house of representatives and the senate and to the joint committee on agriculture and fisheries."