Oral

Although reference to the farm bill traditionally triggers thoughts of crop subsidies, over three-fourths of USDA expenditures support federal nutrition assistance and related programs. Besides these programs, USDA supports nutrition research, nutrition education, dietary guidance, nutrition policy development, community security grants, and healthy food environment initiatives. This 1½ hour session will explore how the web of USDA programs could be woven together to promote public health through production of a healthier food supply; access to healthier foods; and ability to select and prepare healthier foods. The 2007 Farm Bill included several new initiatives for nutrition and public health, but these may be threatened by efforts to reduce the federal deficits. The 2012 Farm Bill, given the environment, competing interests and political realities, will require a new coordinated approach that links supply, access, and consumption of healthier foods, while advancing economic development, local control, and fiscal prudence, and disease prevention.

Session Objectives: 1. Identify the complexities and nutrition-related elements of the current farm bill. 2. Analyze how positions on policies that advance public health and nutrition in the farm bill materialize and become law. 3. Identify ways to participate in the debate and formation of the farm bill through APHA, other organizations, and conversations with their federal Senators and Representatives.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)