Update—June 7, 2024: Exciting news: Thanks to advocates like you and the work of committed sponsors, this bill just passed the New York Legislature! In the coming weeks, it will be delivered to Governor Hochul.
If signed into law, this important bill would encourage public institutions to use the power of food procurement to improve the lives of millions of farm animals, while also supporting environmental sustainability, racial equity, fair labor practices, local economies and nutrition in the Empire State.
Millions of meals are served each year within New York’s schools, hospitals, correctional facilities and other public institutions. These establishments spend well over $1 billion annually on food, but current state law requires them to purchase food from the “lowest responsible bidder.” This policy forces institutions to source the cheapest option for the food they prepare and serve, making it nearly impossible to purchase animal products that meet higher welfare standards.
The Good Food New York Bill will allow New York institutions to spend up to 10% more to source food from vendors that meet specific values-based criteria, including animal welfare.
Stay tuned for updates! Learn more about the Good Food Purchasing Program and see other communities across the country that have adopted the GFPP.
