We strongly support funding for the recommendations outlined in the “2006 Statewide Plan for Agricultural Policy and Resource Management.”  ’07
     We encourage and support the passage of legislation to help resource-based industries and alternative or value-added enterprises. We encourage the state to coordinate laws and regulations with contiguous states. '03
     Rules and regulations written by the State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene should be revised to allow for on-farm food processing and food preparation.  The revisions should require reasonable sanitary food handling practices without the cost and complication of those required for year-round food service businesses.  Short-term food service permits should be issued for longer than the current 14 days and should be available in place of a year-round permit. '04
     We encourage MDA to work with state and county agencies to coordinate uniform statewide rules concerning the marketing of locally produced meat, dairy and poultry products at farmers markets, roadside stands and farm commissaries in non-commercial agricultural buildings. '04