Legislation Co-Sponsored by Senator Catharine Young Aims to Boost Local Agricultural Purchases

ALBANY – The New York State Senate passed the “Buy From the Backyard Act,” a bill co-sponsored by Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I-57th District), which promotes the purchase of food grown or produced locally.

“’Buy From the Backyard’ encourages investment in New York’s agriculture and demonstrates our state’s commitment to the products grown, produced and harvested in our area. It reinforces the importance of supporting our local, hardworking farmers and aims to grow our economy,” said Senator Young.

“The bill expands on an existing law and requires state agencies with food contracts to buy at least 20 percent of their food from New York sources. These agencies include prisons, universities, and state institutions. Agriculture is one of the top industries in our state and a vital part of our efforts to create new jobs and prosperity,” Senator Young added.

The bill has been sent to the Assembly.