1. United States
2. La.
3. Letter

I am writing to respectfully urge your support for a state-led initiative to promote locally grown and produced agricultural goods through voluntary “Made in Louisiana” or “Proudly Grown Here” labeling programs, complemented by state-specific branding and consumer education efforts. Such programs could empower our farmers, ranchers, and food producers while fostering community pride, economic resilience, and sustainable supply chains within Louisiana. As Louisiana’s agricultural sector navigates challenges like rising production costs, climate pressures, and competition from out-of-state imports, a coordinated state effort to highlight homegrown products could provide critical support. By encouraging producers to adopt voluntary labeling—featuring state symbols, mottos, or slogans (e.g., “Fresh from Louisiana” or “Louisiana's Harvest”)—we can help consumers easily identify and choose goods that sustain local jobs, protect farmland, and reduce our environmental footprint. Key components might include: State Certification Standards: Establish clear, voluntary guidelines for “Louisiana Grown” or “Made in Louisiana” labels, ensuring transparency about sourcing and production. Local Marketing Campaigns: Partner with agricultural boards, tourism agencies, and retailers to launch campaigns (e.g., “Louisiana First” or “Taste Our Tradition”) that celebrate regional specialties and connect consumers with local producers. Farmer & Producer Incentives: Offer state grants, reduced fees, or technical assistance to small farms and businesses adopting these labels, helping them compete in crowded markets. School & Institutional Partnerships: Prioritize state-grown products in public institutions (schools, prisons, hospitals) to create reliable markets for local producers. Tourism Synergy: Integrate agricultural branding into state tourism efforts (e.g., “Louisiana Ag Trails” or farm-to-table travel guides) to boost rural economies. This initiative would not only safeguard Louisiana’s agricultural heritage but also strengthen food security, keep dollars circulating locally, and inspire pride in the hardworking individuals who feed our communities. States like Vermont have demonstrated how such programs can uplift rural and urban economies alike. I kindly ask that you explore introducing or expanding such measures through legislation, agency partnerships, or budgetary support. By uniting producers, consumers, and policymakers around a shared vision for Louisiana’s future, we can ensure our agricultural sector remains a cornerstone of prosperity and identity. Thank you for your commitment to Louisiana’s farmers, families, and food systems.