Bill > A08091

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 the bidder makes publicly available information about where they source their food. These values-based procurement standards are defined to include criteria such as supporting local economies (food grown, processed, or manufactured within 100 miles or certified by the state), promoting environmental resilience (through practices that improve soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and avoid harmful chemicals), advancing racial equity (by prioritizing minority and women-owned businesses or socially disadvantaged farms), valuing the workforce (by respecting workers' rights to organize and bargain), supporting the agricultural sector (by paying fair prices to farmers), ensuring animal welfare (through humane care and certified programs), and promoting good nutrition (by offering healthy food options). Additionally, all bidders on food contracts must provide supply chain data, which will be made public, to ensure transparency.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8091