NY A07528

Establishes the New York State Council on Food Policy within the Executive Department with the goal of developing comprehensive food policies ensuring a plentiful, accessible, affordable, safe, and nutritious food supply with locally produced foods whenever possible.

Council membership includes commissioners or directors from ten state agencies (Health, Agriculture and Markets, Temporary and Disability Assistance, Education, Aging, General Services, Economic Development, Environmental Conservation, Consumer Protection Board, and others the Governor deems appropriate) plus 15 appointed members representing farmers, food industry, anti-hunger advocates, nutritionists, consumers, and academic experts.

Establishes an advisory board of at least 15 members appointed by the Governor with recommendations from legislative leaders, consisting of farmers, anti-hunger advocates, food assistance providers, nutrition professionals, retailers, processors, environmentalists, and labor organizations.

Council must prepare an annual report to the Governor and Legislature assessing hunger prevalence, nutritional well-being, agricultural status, and program effectiveness, with recommendations to reduce food insecurity, promote healthy diets, increase demand for New York farm products, and improve coordination of food programs.

Act takes effect 180 days after passage and expires December 31, 2016; council chair is designated by the Governor from among the Commissioners of Health, Agriculture and Markets, or Temporary and Disability Assistance, with the other two serving as vice-chairs.