On Tuesday, the Alabama House of Representatives passed House Bill 175, called the “Farm-to-Food Bank Act of 2026.” This bill aims to create a state income tax credit for farmers and food businesses that donate fresh products to food banks.
Introduced by Rep. Ben Robbins from Sylacauga, the bill offers eligible donors a tax credit. They would receive 15% of the donated items’ value or up to $5,000. Farmers must file an annual report to the Alabama Department of Agriculture to detail their donations. The total tax credits available are capped at $2 million, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Department of Agriculture will also report annually to the Alabama State Legislature about the donations and tax credits claimed.
After a minor technical amendment, HB175 passed unanimously. Rep. Robbins shared his excitement, stating it’s a “win-win situation.” He believes the bill will help food banks provide nutritious meals to those in need and offer financial relief to farmers.
If passed into law, the bill will start on June 1, 2026, with tax credits available for the 2027 tax year, ending after 2031. Next, it will head to the Senate for consideration.
### Why This Matters
Food insecurity affects millions of Americans. According to Feeding America, about 38 million people faced hunger in 2021. Programs like this can help improve access to fresh food. Experts argue that incentives for food donations not only support farmers but also bolster community health.
Research shows that around 30-40% of food in the U.S. is wasted. Legislation like HB175 can redirect excess food to those in need, benefiting both the community and the environment.
In addition, there’s a growing movement on social media advocating for food justice. Many users highlight local initiatives aimed at reducing food waste and increasing food accessibility. The public is becoming more aware of these issues, creating a community that supports legislation like HB175.
By connecting farmers with food banks, Alabama is taking a vital step toward combating food waste and hunger.
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2026 Legislative Session,Alabama House of Representatives,farmers,Food banks,State Rep. Ben Robbins,tax credit
