In 2007, the Vermont state legislature requested that the Department of Buildings and General Services and the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets review how Vermont state government, and related entities, support local foods purchases. The “related entities” include the Vermont State Colleges and University of Vermont, although separate legislation dealt with the public school system. The areas considered as part of this directive also included activities where Vermont state government influences food purchasing but does not purchase food itself. This expanded view of food and state government includes:

• Food assistance programs administered by the Agency of Human Services, including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and EBT assistance.
• Health promotion campaigns through the Department of Health, such as the “Eat for Health” website and the healthy workplaces initiative.
• Points of entry for state visitors, such as the welcome centers along our Interstates.
• Tourism promotion programs that highlight Vermont’s working landscape and cuisine.
• Workplace events, such as catered meetings and conferences.
• Efforts by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets to encourage Vermonters to try local foods. In 2003, VAAFM began its official “Buy Local” campaign.