Senate Bill S1239A

                                
 
BILL NUMBER: S1239A

SPONSOR: VALESKY
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the agriculture and markets law, in relation to the
reimbursement of schools for purchasing New York farm products

 
PURPOSE:

This bill creates an additional reimbursements to schools that choose to
purchase farm products of New York.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section 1 - Amends Section 16 of the Agriculture and Markets Law to
create an additional reimbursement for school districts that choose to
purchase New York farm products. For schools that purchase at least 10%
New York farm products, purchases will be reimbursed at an additional
five cents per meal. For schools that purchase at least 15% New York
farm products, purchases will be reimbursed at an additional 10 cents
              

per meal. For schools that purchase at least 25% New York farm products,
purchases will be reimbursed at an additional twenty-five cents per
meal. The commissioner of Agriculture and Markets will be required to
provide schools with a list of approved New York farm product vendors.
Participating schools will need to report to the Commissioner their
percentage of New York farm products in order to receive reimbursement.

Section 2 - Effective Date - Immediately

 
EXISTING LAW:

Under the current law, the Commissioner of Education and Commissioner of
Agriculture and Markets work together to promote and facilitate farm
products in schools. The commissioners are required to reach out to
schools to access their desire and needs for local farm products.  Addi-
tionally, the commissioners must promote and coordinate with farms to
increase access to schools.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

The bill provides a mechanism through which schools can affordably
access farm products produced and grown locally. Local products of ten
cost more than wholesale products, in order to cover these costs and
encourage school districts to look locally when providing meals to
students, a higher meal reimbursement rate will be provided to partic-
ipating school districts. Additionally, the bill helps to support local
farmers and creates access point for New York agricultural products to
get to students. Lastly, students will have increased access to local
food products which will translate into better eating habits and life-
long health.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

2015/2016 - Agriculture Committee

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

TBD
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately