10/01/2026
The Bill (S.7638B / A.8091B) just passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in the New York State legislature!! This will open new pathways for local producers to access stable institutional markets in their own communities. New York can’t afford to award contracts to the lowest bidder at the expense of farmers and workers in our communities. We are thrilled to see this legislation headed back to Kathy Hochul’s desk.
Farmers and unions are united behind the Bill because stable markets and fair labor standards go hand in hand. Public food dollars can and should strengthen New York farms, workers, and local economies. Kathy Hochul, you can make the NY food & farm economy more resilient with —the lowest bidder mandate has to go!
The NY State Comptroller identified direct-to-institution purchasing as a key opportunity to strengthen farm viability and increase in-state food sales. The Bill helps make that possible. Kathy Hochul, farmers need access to these markets—you can make this happen by signing this bill into law!
New York farmers need fair pricing, stable markets, and the ability to compete. The Bill responds to the farm crisis, giving public institutions the freedom to buy more food from NY farms instead of forcing them to contract with the lowest bidder. Kathy Hochul, farmers and workers are looking to you to support their livelihoods, it’s time to sign this bill into law!
