New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation to expand the state’s Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Program to address food insecurity and environmental sustainability. Since its launch in 2022, the program has successfully diverted tens of millions of pounds of surplus food to low-income families while reducing food waste sent to landfills.
The newly signed legislation, S.5331-A/A.5906-A, broadens the program’s impact by requiring more businesses and institutions to donate excess edible food and recycle food scraps. The law increases the proximity requirement for participation from 25 to 50 miles of an organics recycling facility, which includes composting and anaerobic digestion centers.
Governor Hochul emphasized the dual benefits of the program. "No one in New York should be forced to choose between paying rent or putting food on the table," she stated. "Expanding the State’s Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Law will expand access to food supplies and make sure families in need have the resources they deserve."
With funding from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Feeding New York State has significantly increased food donations, averaging two million pounds per month. Since 2022, the program has redirected 32 million pounds of food to families in need, preventing it from ending up in landfills, where it could contribute to harmful methane emissions.
DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar highlighted the program's role in supporting New York's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. "Expansion of the law will accelerate the program’s growth to bring more food to New Yorkers in need while strengthening our work to implement the Climate Act," Mahar said.
Food waste is a critical issue in New York, with 35% to 40% of food entering the waste stream. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), methane emissions from landfilled food waste increased by 295% between 1990 and 2020. Rich Schrader, NRDC’s Director of New York Government Affairs, noted, “The future of New York’s climate depends on taking tangible steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Tackling food waste is a significant step forward.”
The expanded program aligns with New York’s broader climate goals, which aim for an emissions-free economy by 2050. The state’s climate agenda focuses on creating green jobs, fostering economic growth through sustainable investments, and ensuring that disadvantaged communities receive at least 35% of the benefits from these initiatives.
State Senator Peter Harckham, a bill sponsor, called the program a win for sustainability and food security. “By expanding this law, we address sustainability and climate accountability while reducing waste in our landfills," Harckham said. Assemblymember MaryJane Shimsky echoed this sentiment, highlighting the law’s phased implementation through 2028, which allows businesses and recycling infrastructure time to adapt.
Pat McClellan, Policy Director at the New York League of Conservation Voters, praised the legislation as a practical solution to food insecurity and environmental harm. “Sending millions of tons of food to landfills wastes resources and contributes to climate change. This expansion ensures more food reaches vulnerable New Yorkers,” McClellan said.
The program has garnered attention as a leading example of effective food recovery. Dan Egan, Executive Director of Feeding New York State, described it as a cornerstone for building a hunger-free New York. "With continued support, we can grow our nation’s leading Food Recovery Program and make significant strides toward a hunger-free New York,” he said.
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