On April 26, the House of Representatives passed legislation that continues to support “Buy Local” efforts throughout the Commonwealth.

State Representative Christopher M. Markey’s proposed “Buy Local” amendment was adopted as part of a consolidated Energy and Environmental Affairs amendment to the Fiscal Year 2017 budget.

The Buy Local amendment garnered 30 early cosponsors from both parties and representing all regions of the State, including members of the South Coast delegation such as Susan Williams Gifford of Wareham.

The language added to the House of Representatives’ fiscal year 2017 budget calls for funding of no less than $300,000 to enhance the “Buy Local” effort in southeastern, central, and northeastern Massachusetts, amending and increasing the House Ways and Means Department of Agriculture line item.

“This amendment enables numerous farms and local food producers to get their products directly to consumers within their communities,” said Markey. “It really puts an emphasis on buying and eating fresh, locally sourced foods.”