Reps. Daley, Barnett, Constan, Crawford, Darany, Haines, Heise, Huuki, LeBlanc, Liss, Lori, Price, Slavens and Tyler offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 128.

            A resolution to declare September 15, 2011, as Buy Local, Select Pure Michigan Day in the state of Michigan. 

Whereas, If every household spent $10 per week of their current grocery budget on locally grown and produced foods, it would keep almost $37 million weekly and nearly $2 billion yearly working for Michigan’s economy; and

Whereas, Michigan farmers produce more than 200 agricultural commodities, making it the second-most agriculturally diverse state in the nation; and

Whereas, Michigan agri-food industry contributes $71.3 billion to the state’s economy annually, making it the second-largest industry in the state; and

            Whereas, The rise in consumer demand for fresh, local food has more than doubled the number of farmers markets in the state in a decade, from only 90 in 2001 to more than 250 today; and

            Whereas, More retailers, institutions and restaurants are working with Michigan growers to offer more locally-grown products on their tables and store shelves to meet that rising demand for local food; and

            Whereas, Buying locally connects consumers and farmers, helping them to know where their food comes from and how it’s grown; and

            Whereas, Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables supports good health and provides good nutrition for healthier Michigan families and children; and

            Whereas, A special day and farmers market celebration, sponsored by Michigan Food and Farming Systems and the Michigan Farmers Market Association with assistance from and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has been set aside to celebrate Michigan farmers, local food, and good health; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare September 15, 2011, as Buy Local, Select Pure Michigan Day in the state of Michigan. We encourage all citizens to buy fresh, local food and support Michigan farmers.