Permits schools located within the state to purchase certain New York milk

Showing the cosponsors who are on Agora, A to Z. The official record may list more.

• Republican25
• Democratic3

This bill has cosponsors from more than one party.

Shown in neutral colors by design; Agora is non-partisan.

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why George Borrello says this is needed

Whole milk is a healthy, nutritious, and arguably essential option for the developing bodies of children. At 97% fat free, whole milk is a complete protein and contains thirteen vital nutrients and vitamins, including many that need to be consumed with fat to be best absorbed by the body. While many consider skim, low-fat, and reduced-fat milks to be healthier options, researchers are now discovering surprising benefits for those who drink whole milk. Recent studies have found that those who consume whole-fat dairy may have a lower risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes, lower blood pressure, an increased satiety without weight gain, and better sleep. Even more unexpected, it has been found that children who drink full-fat dairy are leaner and less likely to be over- weight compared to their peers who do not consume whole milk. As evidence continues to show that whole milk is a beneficial beverage, many dieticians are recommending that people, children especially, consume the type of milk they prefer as part of an overall healthy diet. Despite its health benefits, whole milk is currently prohibited from being served in schools due to a federal restriction put in place ten years ago to lower childhood obesity and diabetes rates. While the poli- cy was well-intentioned at the time, over the last decade, we have witnessed these rates continue to rise and have learned that the restriction could even be exacerbating the problem. Dairy is an important part of a healthy diet for children and it is essential that kids are drinking their milk. Since whole milk was prohibited from being served to students, the amount of milk consumed in schools has decreased and the amount of milk wasted has increased - not all children enjoy skim and low-fat milks, but many enjoy the taste of whole-fat and will happily consume it. Restricting milk choice negatively impacts the health, growth, and development of kids in our State. Simply put, children do not get the benefits of milk's vitamins and nutrients if they are not drinking it. Beyond that, New York's dairy farmers, who take great pride in producing such a nutritious product, are feeling the strain of having a limited milk market in schools. This bill not only guarantees that children across the State, who receive meals at school, can once again have the fresh, New York produced, whole milk they enjoy but it also supports New York's struggling dairy farmers.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.