AFT Celebrates Key Wins in New York Budget

By Blake Jackson

The American Farmland Trust (AFT) is celebrating key wins in the final FY26 New York budget, highlighting Governor Kathy Hochul’s strong commitment to supporting New York’s agricultural community.

These victories will benefit farmers, protect farmland, and improve access to healthy, local food for all New Yorkers.

One of the key achievements is securing $25 million for agriculture and farmland protection programs. This funding will help land trusts, municipalities, and conservation districts protect farmland from development pressures.

A historic increase in the Environmental Protection Fund, which grew from $400 million to $425 million, provides a strong foundation for these efforts.

Additionally, the budget allocates $700,000 to the Farmland for a New Generation (FNG-NY) program. This vital program connects transitioning farmers with new farmers seeking land, ensuring the sustainability and resilience of New York’s agricultural sector.

The final budget also includes a commitment of at least $150 million in Environmental Bond Act funding for farmland protection.

AFT also celebrated continued support for farm to school programs. The final budget includes $10 million to reimburse school lunch programs that purchase at least 30% of food from New York farmers.

The budget also includes $1.5 million for the Farm to School Grant program, helping expand access to local food in schools.

Julian Mangano, New York Policy Manager at AFT, expressed his optimism, saying, “We look forward to continuing our work with Gov. Hochul and the Legislature to ensure that New York remains a leader in agricultural sustainability.”

While some initiatives, like breakfast programs, were not included in the final budget, AFT remains committed to advocating for expanded support for New York farmers and healthier meals for children.

Photo Credit: gettyimage-jamesbrey