ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — A bill creating a tax break for New York State farmers who donate food to food banks is awaiting action by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Farmers already donate millions of pounds of food every year, but say the credit of up to $5,000 annually would reduce the costs of harvesting and transporting surplus crops that would otherwise go to waste.
The Hunger Action Network of New York State has made the bill a priority, saying it will address a growing hunger problem around the state.
It's also supported by environmentalists and agriculture groups who say it will reduce food waste and help poor New Yorkers get access to healthy fruits and vegetables.
The Democratic governor vetoed the bill last year because lawmakers didn't include it in the budget.
