New York lawmakers heard from young and first-time farmers this week, as demand for state support far outpaces funding, according to Spectrum News 1. One program had just $800,000 last year — with $22 million in requests.
With federal cuts looming and a tight state budget ahead, farmers urged legislators to boost funding, extend tax credits, and rethink climate goals that could hinder agricultural growth. Some also called for help writing grant applications and easier access to land.
Lawmakers say they’ll push to protect current programs — and expand them where possible — to support both new farmers and future projects like the upcoming Chobani plant in Rome.
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