Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, a dedicated advocate for sustainability and food security, announced that the Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Expansion Bill (A5906A), which he cosponsored, has officially been signed into law. As a member of the steering committee of the Schenectady County Food Council, Santabarbara has long championed initiatives that address food waste, hunger, and climate change.

This legislation expands New York State’s food donation and food scraps recycling program by increasing the number of food scraps generators required to participate and extending the maximum transport distance for recycling facilities.

Key provisions include:

• Gradually lowering the threshold for food scraps generators to include those producing one ton or more per week by 2025 and one-half ton or more per week by 2027.
• Increasing the maximum distance for food scraps transport from 25 miles to 50 miles, ensuring more generators have access to recycling facilities.

"Food waste and hunger are interconnected challenges that demand bold action," said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. "This legislation represents a significant step forward in addressing food insecurity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainability in our state. I’m proud to have cosponsored and helped pass this legislation and to see it signed into law."

The bill was driven by alarming data on food waste and its impact on climate change. Research shows that nearly 35-40% of food produced in the U.S. is wasted, contributing to 25-33% of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. This legislation encourages food scraps generators to donate safe, excess food to feed underserved populations while ensuring inedible scraps are properly recycled to reduce landfill methane emissions.

"This measure will not only help feed hungry families and reduce food insecurity but also advance New York's fight against climate change," added Assemblyman Santabarbara. "It's a win for the environment and for our communities."