Senate Resolution No. 963

BY: Senator MAY

COMMEMORATING the 10th Anniversary of the New York
Cider Association

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the
achievements of those individuals and businesses that contribute
substantially to the economic vitality of their communities, thereby
enhancing the economic well-being of the entire Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the New York Cider Association to be
celebrated at the Senate's Annual Hard Cider Tasting Event in the Well
of the Legislative Office Building in Albany, New York, on Monday, May
19, 2025; and

WHEREAS, In 2015, the New York Cider Association was founded by
pioneering New York cidermakers, with support from the Glenwood Center
for Regional Food and Farming, to foster community and act as the
collective voice and organizing body for apple growers and cidermakers
throughout New York State; the Association develops the market for New
York cider made from apples which are grown in this great Empire State;
and

WHEREAS, The New York Cider Association's mission is to grow and
promote the New York cider industry which is accomplished through
education, research, and market development; the Association supports
the production of world-class cider made with New York apples; and

WHEREAS, New York State's hard cider industry is a significant
economic force; it has a total economic impact of over $1.7 billion
annually for New York agriculture and the agritourism industry in the
State; and

WHEREAS, The New York hard cider industry has a significant impact
on the State's economy, generating nearly $300 million in wages and
supporting over 3,000 good-paying jobs; the number of cideries has grown
dramatically in recent years with over 125 licensed producers across the
State; and

WHEREAS, New York is the second largest apple-growing state in the
country and grows more apple varieties than any other state; New York
cider producers are known for their diverse and creative approaches to
cider making, creating and producing a wide array of delicious ciders,
ranging from dry to sweet; and

WHEREAS, The members of the New York Cider Association are
characterized by an impressive commitment, unbridled enthusiasm, and
excellence in their craft, all of which helped in the enactment of
legislation in 2024, allowing direct-to-consumer intrastate shipment of
their exceptional product (Chapter 226, Laws of 2024); and

WHEREAS, It is with immense pride that the hard-working and
dedicated members of the New York Cider Association celebrate this

milestone 10th Anniversary and anticipate continued success as the
industry expands its reach to all corners of the State and country; and

WHEREAS, It is with great pleasure that this Legislative Body
acknowledges this impressive industry and its Association, their
contributions to the local and State economies, and their vibrant role
in improving the quality of life in New York State, fully confident that
both the industry and its Association will continue to enjoy outstanding
success; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the New York Cider Association; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the New York Cider Association.