The Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee No. 4 on State Administration and General Government convened on May 1, 2025, to discuss critical funding initiatives aimed at enhancing California's agricultural sector and addressing climate change.

A significant focus of the meeting was the proposed allocation of $200,000 to initiate an equipment sharing and farmer cooperative program at the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). Stakeholders urged the Senate to align with the Assembly's commitments to ensure clear implementation guidelines for this funding. Additionally, the committee discussed an $18.8 million investment for CDFA's urban agriculture program and $200,000 for a tribal food sovereignty program, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives in promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Addison Peterson, representing the California Certified Organic Farmers, advocated for a continuous appropriation of 15% of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) to support agricultural climate solutions. This funding would include $30 million dedicated to organic agriculture, which is vital for meeting the state's climate targets of increasing organic cropland by 10% by 2030 and 20% by 2045. Peterson highlighted that organic farming practices enhance carbon sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating synthetic fertilizers.

Brian Showed, speaking on behalf of the California Climate and Agriculture Network, expressed support for the governor's proposal for healthy soils funding and the equipment sharing program. He called for collaboration with Assemblymember Bennett to establish guiding language for the program's implementation. Showed also pointed out two critical programs—the organic transition program and the alternative manure management program—that were not funded through Proposition 4. These programs are essential for reducing methane emissions from dairies and supporting healthy soil practices.

The discussions underscored the urgency of investing in sustainable agricultural practices to meet California's climate goals and enhance food security. The committee's next steps will involve reviewing the proposed funding allocations and determining how best to implement these initiatives effectively.