NY A09536

Adds a new duty to the Department of Agriculture and Markets to aid efforts supporting the successful transfer of viable agricultural land from existing owners to new owners and operators, especially beginning farmers.

Expands the advisory council on agriculture's mandate to advise the commissioner and state agency heads on tax, financial assistance, and other policies and programs addressing the needs of beginning farmers and farm ownership transfer issues.

Requires the commissioner to report biennially to the governor and legislature on efforts to enhance access to viable agricultural land for new and beginning farmers, in addition to existing reporting requirements.