New York’s farmers have historically been some of the most generous individuals, donating extra produce to our statewide food bank system. In 2014, New York’s farmers were responsible for donating more than 10 million pounds of food, breaking the record at the time. This generosity and dedication to filling the pantries of our state’s food banks should be met with praise and applause. It should also be met with a reward for going above and beyond what is asked.

Because of the generosity and success of our farmers and their food bank donations, I proudly voted for Assembly Bill 10584, which would create a credit for donation to a food bank or other emergency food program by New York state farmers. This credit would be valued at twenty five percent of wholesale cost of donations and would be capped at five thousand dollars per year. However, there are costs associated with boxing and shipping these products to the food banks, which come directly out of the pockets of farmers. Installing this credit would help cover the cost of this packaging and shipping, and ensure the flow of donated products continues.

After Assembly Bill 10584 unanimously passed the Assembly and Senate, the governor exercised his veto power, and declined to enact the legislation. It is unfortunate that Gov. Cuomo has decided to veto this legislation, and I urge my colleagues in the State Legislature to exercise our power to override his veto. The reasoning behind the governor’s veto is that our state can’t afford to add additional expenses to our budget.

With an estimated cost of $800,000 per year, this credit is miniscule compared to some of the extreme tax credits offered in this state, such as the Film Production and Post Production Credit that is offered. The governor’s refusal to sign this legislation really illustrates where his priorities lie. He doesn’t feel that a minor credit to cover the packing and shipping cost of donations by farmers is necessary; however he has no problem putting his name on massive credits for the film industry. The Food Bank Credit is a wonderful bipartisan bill, and a perfect example of coming across the aisle and working together for a common goal.

My conference and I will continue to advocate for legislation that is beneficial to all New Yorkers. I welcome your thoughts on this tax credit or any other legislative matter. Please contact me by emailing blankenbushk@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling my office at 315-493-3909.