Dave Hartnett
Independent Candidate for Vermont House of Representatives in the Chittenden-18 District
What do you believe is the role of state government, if any, in ensuring that everyone living in Vermont has the food they need to thrive?
A major role for the most needy and growing needy population. Food costs are high, and eating healthy is even more expensive.
What would be your policy priorities to move Vermont toward food security for all?
By continuing to support the role that schools have been playing in addressing hunger and food insecure people. Also, we needed to do a better job legislatively to address the needs of seniors who do not have the same infrastructure as children attending schools.
What do you believe are the root causes of hunger, and what should the state do to address those underlying factors?
Improve our economy, safety nets for our most vulnerable, housing reform, mental health treatment, transportation are just some of the many reasons for hunger. The state, and federal government can both play a role in at least reducing hunger and poverty.
How would you help strengthen the state’s agriculture and food economy to ensure Vermont farms can continue to grow the food we all need?
Continuing and perhaps growing tax incentives for farmers, dairy and smaller food growing farms. The number of farms has been declining rapidly, and we need to support young famers who want not only to explore farming but stay in it for a lifetime.