Helming Bill Streamlines Process for Schools to Purchase Food from Local Farms

GENEVA, NY – Senator Pam Helming today announced the passage of a three-way amendment to streamline the process for schools to purchase fresh food from local farms. The original legislation - signed into law last July - allows local BOCES and municipalities to directly purchase New York State-produced foods, but required a county to apply to the State Commissioner of General services to make the purchases. The chapter amendment passed earlier this week cuts the red tape and removes this costly and time-consuming requirement.

“I am proud that we were able to eliminate an unnecessary barrier to to bringing fresh, local foods to our communities and schools. By streamlining the process and removing the state requirement, school districts and municipalities can work together to decide what is best for their own community without Albany bureaucrats dictating the decisions. This important legislation is key for the success of family farms and will ensure that local kids have the opportunity to choose fresh, nutritious food options. I want to thank my colleagues for making this amendment so early in the year, and hope the Assembly and Governor will quickly follow suit,” Senator Helming said.

Prior to the original bill being signed into law, current law allowed state agencies to spend up to $200,000 annually to purchase locally grown foods without going through a formal procurement procedures. The amended legislation extends similar exemptions to BOCES and municipalities.

This act took effect on July 21, 2017 (the date of the signing of Chapter 90 of the laws of 2017 – S.5251B).

Senator Helming represents the 54^th Senate District, which consists of Seneca and Wayne Counties, parts of Cayuga and Ontario Counties, and the towns of Lansing and Webster. For more information, please visit Senator Helming’s website, or follow @SenatorHelming on Facebook or Twitter.

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