A budget plan led by Rep. Greg VanWoerkom that saves taxpayer dollars while supporting continued growth, innovation and food safety in Michigan’s agricultural industry was approved by the Michigan House.

“Supporting innovation and safety in growing and processing the food we put on our table is a sound investment in our state’s agricultural economy,” said VanWoerkom, who chairs the House Subcommittee on Agriculture and Rural Development. “Agriculture is Michigan’s second-largest sector in our state’s economy, and I am proud the House has put forward a smart-spending plan that protects our farming communities and promotes food safety and innovation.”

In addition to innovation investments, the Agriculture and Rural Development plan includes ongoing funds for Michigan’s Double-up Food Bucks program that will allow the program—which enhances Michigan families’ access to fresh foods—to expand to all 83 counties.

The proposal approved by the House today maximizes existing state resources to support critical services without raising taxes or fees, VanWoerkom said. Overall, the subcommittee’s proposal spends $3.6 million less in general revenue dollars than requested by the governor.

The proposal, House Bill 4229, next moves to the Senate for consideration.