Bill > S07638

This bill allows for certain food purchase contracts to be awarded to qualified bidders who meet specific "values-based procurement standards" even if their bid is up to 10% higher than the lowest responsible bidder, provided that bidder is based in New York State. These standards encompass criteria such as supporting local economies (food grown or processed within 100 miles), environmental resilience (practices that improve soil health and reduce greenhouse gases), racial equity (supporting minority and women-owned businesses or socially disadvantaged farms), valuing the workforce (respecting workers' rights and collective bargaining), supporting the agricultural sector (paying fair prices to farmers), animal welfare (humane treatment of animals), and promoting good nutrition. Additionally, all bidders on food contracts must publicly disclose data about where their food is sourced, with certain exceptions for confidential information.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7638