Senator Tony Exum highlighted a critical issue during the Colorado Senate meeting on April 9, 2025, addressing significant cuts to federal funding that will impact food security in the state. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently eliminated over $1 billion from two essential programs designed to support food banks and school meal initiatives, including a staggering $660 million aimed at providing nutritious meals for school children.

These programs, known as the Local Food Purchase Assistance and Local Food for Schools, were intended to strengthen local food supply chains by connecting schools and food pantries with small farms and dairies. The abrupt removal of more than $13 million in funding specifically allocated for Colorado threatens to undermine food security for many families, particularly children who rely on school meals.

Governor Jared Polis expressed concern that these cuts would not only harm farmers but also increase food costs for consumers. The senator emphasized that this decision comes at a time when food insecurity is already on the rise, with more than one in ten Coloradans lacking reliable access to nutritious food, as reported by the Colorado Health Institute.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for state and local leaders to address the growing challenges of food insecurity, especially as inflation continues to strain household budgets and the expiration of pandemic-related benefits leaves many vulnerable. As the state grapples with these challenges, the implications of federal funding cuts will be felt across communities, making it imperative for lawmakers to seek solutions that ensure access to healthy food for all Coloradans.