A Reconsideration of Agricultural Law: A Call for the Law of Food, Farming, and Sustainability

29 Pages Posted: 9 Aug 2009 Last revised: 5 May 2013

See all articles by Susan A. Schneider

Susan A. Schneider

University of Arkansas - School of Law

Date Written: December 1, 2009

Abstract

American agricultural policy has evolved from its early focus on agricultural development and expansion to its current emphasis on providing economic support for the agricultural sector. Agricultural law as a discipline has tracked this policy, with agricultural law scholars debating the origins and the validity of the special treatment of agriculture under the law. This article reviews these debates and calls for a reconsideration of agricultural law and policy. It argues for agricultural policies that consider the production of safe and healthy food as the primary goal. Agricultural law in this context can address the unique aspects of agricultural production, the fragility of the environment, and sustainability concerns, all in the context of a systemic food policy. Transforming the special law of agriculture to focus on the sustainable production of healthy food is a critical challenge for the future.

Suggested Citation

Schneider, Susan A., A Reconsideration of Agricultural Law: A Call for the Law of Food, Farming, and Sustainability (December 1, 2009). William & Mary Environmental Law & Policy Review, Vol. 34, p. 935, Spring 2010, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1446131

Susan A. Schneider (Contact Author)

University of Arkansas - School of Law ( email )

260 Waterman Hall
Fayetteville, AR 72701
United States
(479) 575-4334 (Phone)
(479) 575-2224 (Fax)

HOME PAGE: http://law.uark.edu/faculty/schneider.html

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