NY A10195

Changes the "Young Farmer Advisory Board" name to "Beginning Farmer Advisory Board" throughout the legislation.

Increases board membership from 20 to 22 members and shifts appointment authority from the governor (with senate and assembly advice/consent) to the commissioner of agriculture.

Expands board composition to include representatives from the Department of Labor, Cornell Small Farms Program, USDA, and specific farmer categories including organic farmers, veteran farmers, and historically underrepresented farm ownership groups.

Removes the age restriction (under 45 years old) and 50% income requirement from farming, replacing them with a requirement that members be actively involved in farming, agricultural activities, or providing services to the agricultural community.

Changes meeting frequency from quarterly to twice a year and changes the reporting requirement from annual to biennial reports to the governor and legislature.