NEW YORK STATE — The New York State Senate passed two bills co-sponsored by Senator John J. Bonacic that are intended to provide economic relief and assistance to New York State farmers. The first bill, the “Repower New York Farms Act,” reduces energy costs for farmers to promote a generation of independent farms powered by renewable energy. The legislation lowers farmers’ utility bills and expands New York’s agricultural economy by reducing fees for farms that install renewable energy.

The second bill authorizes industrial development agencies (IDAs) to provide assistance to agricultural producers for products grown, harvested or produced within the state. Under the current law, IDAs can only issue loans and provide technical support to agricultural manufacturers.

“New York State is an agricultural leader. Our local towns and businesses rely on our farmers. We need to provide farmers economic relief so they can continue to invest in farming, reach our markets, and reinvest in our state. ” said Bonacic.