Expands the definition of "agricultural commodity" to include maple sap and maple products produced therefrom

3 Co-sponsors

• William T. Stachowski
• George Winner
• Catharine Young

BILL NUMBER:S6317A

Title of bill

An act to amend the agriculture and markets law, in relation to the definition of "agricultural commodity"

Purpose or general idea of bill

To amend the definition of agricultural commodity to include not only maple syrup, but also "pure" maple products produced from such syrup.

Summary of specific provisions

This bill amends subdivision one of section 293 of the Agriculture and markets law.

Section 1 - Amends the definition of agricultural commodity to include tree sap and pure maple products produced thereof.

Section 2 - This act shall take effect immediately.

Justification

Maple production in New York State is currently an $18 million dollar (estimated) activity, with the potential for significant expansion. New York State has the most tappable maple trees of any state or province, with only 0.5% of the potential taps currently utilized. New York is the 3rd largest maple producer. In accordance with a study conducted by Cornell University, if New York were to tap its maple trees at the same rate as the State of Vermont, it would produce 1.2 million gallons of maple syrup, four times the amount of New York's current production. New York is also a net importer of maple syrup, which indicates there is significant need. With some assistance, this need could be met with New York State product.

One of the measures identified that would improve conditions for maple producers, and help to attract more producers and expansion of existing operations, is to expand the definition of agricultural commodity to include not only tree sap, but also products produced from "pure" maple sap (which would include syrup, maple cream, shaped sugar, and granulat- ed maple sugar). Expanding this definition would extend the agricultural protection that would be beneficial to the industry. If maple were included in the definition, of "agricultural commodity", then producers would be eligible to apply for United States Department of Agriculture and New York State Agriculture & Markets funding to assist with their production.

This measure will make the maple tapping industry in New York State more economically viable, and help set the stage for future expansion.

Prior legislative history

None.

Fiscal implications

None to the State. Positive implications for maple producers.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.