New York A08508 mandates the commissioner of education to require schools to donate unused food to local food banks and establish related policies.

New York A08508 amends the education law to mandate the commissioner of education to require school districts and institutions of higher education to donate excess, unused, edible food from meals served at educational facilities to local food banks. The commissioner must develop guidelines to effectuate this program, including procedures to inform relevant entities and ensure compliance with food safety and donation regulations. The commissioner will coordinate with the farm-to-school program and the commissioner of agriculture and markets.

New York A08508 mandates the commissioner of education to require schools to donate unused food to local food banks and establish related policies.

New York A08508 amends the education law to mandate the commissioner of education to require school districts and institutions of higher education to donate excess, unused, edible food from meals served at educational facilities to local food banks. The commissioner must develop guidelines to effectuate this program, including procedures to inform relevant entities and ensure compliance with food safety and donation regulations. The commissioner will coordinate with the farm-to-school program and the commissioner of agriculture and markets.