By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (May 23, 2025)
Disclosure: The author is a former Treasurer of the Board of Directors for the Food Bank of El Dorado County.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Legislation authored by Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-Jackson) to make California’s Farm to Food Bank Tax Credit permanent cleared a major legislative hurdle this week, passing out of the Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee with unanimous bipartisan support.
Senate Bill 353 (SB 353) aims to bolster the state’s food safety net while offering tax relief to small and mid-sized farmers who donate fresh produce, dairy, and grains to local food banks. The 15% tax credit, currently set to expire in 2027, has already proven effective in reducing food waste and increasing access to nutritious food across the state.
“California’s affordability crisis continues to strain families across the state, making it harder for many to access the basics they need,” said Senator Alvarado-Gil, who also serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee. “SB 353 helps ease that burden by ensuring farmers can keep donating fresh food to food banks without uncertainty.”
The credit has had measurable impact. According to the California Association of Food Banks, over 22% of California households experience food insecurity, a number that jumps to 27% in homes with children. In 2023 alone, food donations through the tax credit amounted to $8.2 million, with over $769,000 in tax benefits awarded to participating farmers.
In El Dorado County, the legislation has gained strong backing. Mike Sproull, Executive Director of the Food Bank of El Dorado County, testified in favor of the bill, praising Senator Alvarado-Gil’s dedication to rural communities.
“Senator Alvarado-Gil genuinely cares about the less fortunate in rural California,” Sproull said. “We will continue to work together to ensure our most at-risk are cared for in communities throughout California.”
SB 353’s permanent extension would allow farmers to plan future donations with confidence and help food banks maintain a reliable supply of fresh, local produce, especially to at-risk groups such as seniors, veterans, and low-income families.
The bill will now proceed to the Senate Appropriations Committee, where its fiscal impact will be reviewed before any potential floor vote.
