New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S04162

Introduced

2/3/25

Refer

2/3/25

Engrossed

3/18/25

Refer

3/18/25

Refer

1/7/26

Report Pass

1/29/26

Caption

Expands the FreshConnect program, which provides rebates for the purchase of local produce to certain people, to include local produce sold in supermarkets and grocery stores.

Summary

Bill S04162 seeks to expand the FreshConnect program in New York, which incentivizes the purchase of local produce by providing rebates to eligible individuals. The bill specifically aims to include local produce sold in supermarkets and grocery stores, thereby broadening the scope of the program to enhance access to locally sourced food. The definition of 'local produce' is clarified within the bill, ensuring that it pertains to produce grown by New York producers. This initiative is anticipated to support local farmers and promote the consumption of fresh, locally grown food among residents.

Impact

The passage of this bill would amend existing state laws related to agricultural programs and consumer incentives, specifically enhancing the FreshConnect program. By allowing rebates for purchases made in supermarkets and grocery stores, the bill aims to increase the market for local producers and improve food access for consumers. This could lead to a more robust local economy and potentially improve public health outcomes through increased consumption of fresh produce.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S04162 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, as evidenced by the unanimous votes in both the Senate Agriculture Committee and the Senate Floor Vote for final passage. The discussions indicate a strong bipartisan support for initiatives that promote local agriculture and improve access to healthy food options.

Contention

While there seems to be broad support for the bill, some points of contention may arise regarding the definition of 'local produce' and the eligibility criteria for rebates. Concerns could be raised by stakeholders who may feel that the bill does not adequately address the needs of all local producers or that it may inadvertently favor larger supermarkets over smaller local markets. However, no significant opposition has been recorded in the voting history.

Latest NY S04162 Activity

View All Events: NY 2025-2026 Regular Session S04162

Companion Bills

NY A04515

Same As Expands the FreshConnect program, which provides rebates for the purchase of local produce to certain people, to include local produce sold in supermarkets and grocery stores.

Previously Filed As

NY S01780

Expands the FreshConnect program, which provides rebates for the purchase of local produce to certain people, to include local produce sold in supermarkets and grocery stores.

NY A04515

Expands the FreshConnect program, which provides rebates for the purchase of local produce to certain people, to include local produce sold in supermarkets and grocery stores.

NY A3540

"Food Desert Elimination Act"; provides incentives to supermarkets and grocery stores that locate in "food deserts."

NY A2353

Requires certain supermarkets, grocery stores, and food suppliers to donate food under certain circumstances.

NY S4388

Requires certain supermarkets, grocery stores, and food suppliers to donate food under certain circumstances.

NY AB1857

An act to add Section 714.8 to the Civil Code, relating to land use.

NY HF1032

A bill for an act creating a grocer reinvestment program, a local produce processing grant program, and a grocer reinvestment and local food processing fund under the purview of the economic development authority, and modifying the local food and farm program. (Formerly HF 550, HF 59.)

NY SSB1054

A bill for an act creating a grocer reinvestment program, a local produce processing grant program, and a grocer reinvestment and local food processing fund under the purview of the economic development authority, modifying the local food and farm program, and making appropriations.

NY HF550

A bill for an act creating a grocer reinvestment program, a local produce processing grant program, and a grocer reinvestment and local food processing fund under the purview of the economic development authority, modifying the local food and farm program, and making appropriations.(Formerly HF 59; See HF 1032.)

NY HF59

A bill for an act creating a grocer reinvestment program, a local produce processing grant program, and a grocer reinvestment and local food processing fund under the purview of the economic development authority, modifying the local food and farm program, and making appropriations.(See HF 550, HF 1032.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.