The Senate Standing Committee on Agriculture convened on March 4, 2025, to discuss the future of agriculture in New York, highlighting both challenges and opportunities within the sector. Senators Fernandez and Fahey participated in the meeting, which focused on the impact of federal policies, particularly tariffs, on local agriculture.

Senator Fernandez expressed optimism about the future of New York agriculture, noting significant growth in the state's Future Farmers of America (FFA) program. He reported that New York is the fastest-growing FFA state in the nation, with plans to reach 100 chapters within five years. This growth is seen as a positive sign for the agricultural workforce, which has faced concerns over a lack of young people entering the field.

The discussion also touched on the importance of local food initiatives, particularly the "farm to school" program, which aims to source 30% of school lunches from local farms. Some schools are exceeding this goal, with one in Peru, New York, reportedly sourcing 70% of its lunch program from local producers. This initiative not only supports local agriculture but also enhances the nutritional quality of school meals.

Senators acknowledged the challenges posed by immigration policies affecting farm labor and the need for continued collaboration with federal partners to address these issues. Despite these challenges, there was a shared sense of optimism about the potential for New York to become a leader in sustainable agriculture, leveraging its resources and educational programs.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation among committee members to ensure the future success of New York's agricultural sector. The senators expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts and the importance of maintaining access to food for all New Yorkers.