California's Market Match program, which doubles CalFresh benefits at farmers markets, faces an uncertain future as state funding runs out and federal cuts loom. - Market Match served over 627,000 low-income shoppers in 2025, providing 45 million servings of fresh produce.
- The program's $35 million in state funding over three years is not renewed in Gov. Newsom's proposed budget, with funds exhausted by March 2027.
- Assemblymember Damon Connolly and Sen. Josh Becker propose permanent state funding starting at $20 million per year, rising to $50 million.
- Federal cuts to SNAP and Medicaid threaten up to 3 million Californians' food assistance, making state support critical. Advocates argue the program is essential for health and local farmers, but its future depends on legislative action.