NY S04755

Establishes the Farm Ownership Succession Planning Program (FOSPP) by August 1, 2026, with the first forum held by October 1, 2026, administered jointly by the Department of Agriculture and Markets, Department of Economic Development, and Department of Financial Services

Creates a succession planning toolkit for farm owners planning to sell or close their farms, including financial resources for prospective buyers, farming education programs, economic development funding sources, equipment auction lists, labor laws, and insurance regulations

Develops statewide live and virtual forums to connect retiring farmers with prospective new farmers and educate both groups on buying/selling opportunities and available resources

Requires an outreach plan to chambers of commerce throughout New York and neighboring states (New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts), including minority business chambers, due by August 1, 2026

Authorizes creation of a 10-member Diversity in Farming Advisory Task Force, chaired by the Agriculture Commissioner, to ensure the program reaches prospective farmers from protected classes, to be established within 120 days of the act's effective date