The ASPCA and the 70+ diverse organizations that make up the New York State Good Food Purchasing Program coalition are celebrating a major victory for New Yorkers. After more than three years of hard work, the Good Food NY bill (S. 6955A/A. 7264A) passed in the New York State Legislature last week!

This groundbreaking bill will revise New York’s outdated food-procurement laws, which currently require public institutions like schools, hospitals and correctional facilities to source food from the “lowest responsible bidder.” This policy forces institutions to select the cheapest option for the food they prepare and serve, making it nearly impossible to purchase animal-derived products that meet higher welfare standards. Good Food NY will allow New York institutions to spend up to 10% more to source food from vendors that align with New Yorkers’ values: supporting animal welfare, environmental sustainability, racial equity, fair labor practices, strong local economies and nutrition.

New York’s public institutions represent well over $1 billion of purchasing power and serve millions of meals each year. Thanks to the Good Food NY bill, these institutions can now opt to invest in farmers who are raising animals in higher-welfare and pasture-based systems, helping to build more humane and resilient regional food systems throughout the state. There are already animal welfare-certified farms across New York and in surrounding states, many of whom now may be able to sell their higher-welfare products to local institutions!

We’re so thankful to have had the leadership of the Good Food NY bill sponsors Senator Michelle Hinchey and Assembly Majority Leader Crystal People-Stokes, and grateful to the thousands of New Yorkers who spoke up in support of the bill. No longer restricted to buying the cheapest (and often, most harmful) food, New York institutions can now prioritize the values of their communities and the welfare of millions of farm animals.

Interested in supporting or starting a Good Food Purchasing Program in your state or city? Learn where active campaigns are up and running and how you can support values-based food procurement today.