New York Assembly Bill A03638

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/25
• Refer: 1/28/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Provides for instruction in food and agriculture in schools using a curriculum established by the commissioner of education in consultation with the commissioner of agriculture and markets.

Summary

This bill would amend the Education Law to require the Commissioner of Education, in consultation with the Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets, to establish curriculum or instruction for school districts on farming and agriculture. The required content would include horticulture, agricultural literacy, food production, food manufacturing, and agribusiness, along with other related topics. The bill also directs that the curriculum include a hands-on instructional component that is age-appropriate and designed to show the material value of New York’s farming industry. Schools would be permitted to incorporate the material into science classes or any other part of the curriculum they choose, rather than being limited to a single subject area.

Impact

The bill would add a new section to the Education Law creating a state-level framework for agriculture education in public schools. It would require the education department, working with the Department of Agriculture and Markets, to develop instructional materials and guidance, while leaving local school districts flexibility in how to deliver the content. The measure could affect curriculum planning, teacher preparation, and instructional resources for schools that choose to implement or integrate the material.

Sentiment

No committee transcript or vote record was provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate, support, or opposition in the available record. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears educational and promotional in tone, aiming to increase student awareness of agriculture and New York’s farming sector. The absence of recorded votes or discussion makes it difficult to assess broader legislative sentiment.

Contention

The main potential point of contention is whether the state should establish a new curriculum requirement or guidance for schools, even though the bill allows local flexibility in how the material is used. Some stakeholders may view the measure as a valuable way to promote agricultural literacy and support an important state industry, while others may question adding another state-developed instructional topic to already crowded school curricula. No specific objections or supporters are identified in the available materials.