New York Assembly Bill A05426

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/25
• Refer: 2/14/25
• Refer: 3/6/25
• Refer: 1/7/26
• Refer: 1/30/26

Caption

Provides that all persons have the right to grow, raise, harvest, produce and consume the food of their own choosing for their own nourishment, sustenance, bodily health and well-being, and the right to be free from hunger, malnutrition, starvation and the endangerment of life from the scarcity of or lack of access to nourishing food.

Summary

Bill A05426 proposes an amendment to the New York State Constitution to establish a fundamental right to food for all individuals. This amendment asserts that every person has an inherent right to nutritious, sufficient, and quality food, which includes the rights to save and exchange seeds, as well as to grow, raise, harvest, produce, and consume food of their own choosing. The bill emphasizes the importance of food access and aims to protect individuals from hunger, malnutrition, and starvation, thereby promoting bodily health and well-being.

Impact

If enacted, this amendment would significantly alter the legal landscape regarding food rights in New York State. It would enshrine the right to food in the state constitution, potentially influencing future legislation and policies related to food security, agricultural practices, and individual rights concerning food production and consumption. This could lead to increased protections for local food systems and greater accountability for ensuring access to nutritious food for all residents.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill A05426 appears to be supportive among advocates for food justice and individual rights, who view it as a necessary step towards addressing food insecurity and promoting health. However, there may be concerns from property rights advocates and those worried about the implications of such a constitutional amendment on agricultural regulations and land use.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the implications of the amendment on private property rights and agricultural practices. Critics may argue that the broad language of the bill could lead to conflicts over land use and resource management, while supporters emphasize the need for a constitutional guarantee of food rights to combat hunger and malnutrition. The balance between individual rights and property rights is likely to be a key area of debate.