Bill > S04740

This bill amends the administrative code of New York City to require that perishable or canned foods seized from a general vendor must be donated to a food relief organization or homeless shelter, rather than being discarded. The bill provides detailed definitions for key terms: "perishable foods" are defined as items that may spoil or become unfit for human consumption, including fresh or processed meats, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and other refrigerated items (excluding game); "canned foods" are hermetically sealed, commercially processed foods prepared for human consumption; and "food relief organization" refers to religious or non-profit organizations that provide free food to people experiencing food insecurity, such as food pantries, food banks, soup kitchens, or community-based groups. The legislation aims to reduce food waste and help address hunger by ensuring that seized food items that are still safe for consumption are redirected to those in need, rather than being thrown away. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4740