Just a few months ago, we shared our advocacy priorities for the FY 26-27 state budget, outlining the critical need for state investment in California’s local food systems and family farms. The challenges we highlighted—federal funding cuts, climate disasters, state budget deficits, and strained supply chains—were significant.
Today, we’re pleased to share some exciting updates!
Late yesterday, Governor Newsom signed several FY 26-27 budget bills, and we are pleased to confirm that $15 million for the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA) —known in California as Farms Together—has been secured to keep this vital program running for another year.
In what was one of the toughest budget cycles in recent memory, this win is a significant achievement. Hundreds of farmers, food hubs, and food banks across California engaged, organized, and advocated over this nearly six-month campaign. From calls and trips to Sacramento to in-district meetings and more, we have been inspired by the energy so many of you contributed along the way.
While we are grateful for this $15 million investment, it’s important to note that this funding will sustain the program for roughly one year. We intend to build on this momentum to secure sustainable funding for LFPA—or until the federal Farm Bill can fully support the program, whichever comes first.
What About Proposition 4 / Climate Bond Funding?
As we mentioned in our March update, Proposition 4 presents a major opportunity for structural investments in our food and farming systems. The Legislature has chosen to wait until August, when they reconvene, to address the specific allocations for Prop 4. This includes funding for several key priorities we’ve been advocating for:
- $15 million for a new land access program for socially disadvantaged and beginning farmers
- $14.8 million for an equipment-sharing and farmer cooperative program
To everyone who has supported these efforts: thank you. We’ll share updates as these allocations are finalized later this summer, so please stay tuned. This is a critical moment for California agriculture, and we’re encouraged by the progress made!
Date: June 30, 2026
By: Jamie Fanous, Policy & Organizing DirectorÂ