Bill > S00591

This bill amends existing law to expand the ways school food authorities can qualify for a state subsidy by purchasing food from New York state farmers, growers, producers, or processors. Currently, schools can receive additional state funding if they purchase at least 30% of their school lunch food products from New York state sources. Starting July 1, 2025, the bill will allow schools to also count food purchases for school breakfast and snack programs towards meeting that 30% threshold. Schools will still need to apply annually to the Department of Agriculture and Markets, providing documentation of their total food purchases and the percentage sourced from New York state producers. The bill aims to support local agriculture by incentivizing schools to buy more food from in-state farmers and producers, while providing financial support to school food programs. The changes are designed to be flexible, giving school food authorities more options for meeting the purchasing requirements and potentially increasing their state subsidy.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S591