Testimony

While providing testimony to legislative bodies, the Food Bank For New York City is able to present information from our research to key decision makers. Such opportunities are instrumental in our efforts to affect legislative and procedural changes that can have a positive impact on the lives of New Yorkers in need. Browse the Food Bank's past testimony below.

Opposing the Proposed Soda Tax in New York State
On January 22, 2010 the Food Bank provided testimony at a Food Policy Hearing before the New York State Senate Committee on Health. Specifically, the testimony expressed our opposition to a proposed soda tax, addressing the impact such a tax could have on New York City's most vulnerable residents and suggesting alternative food policies to fight obesity and diet-related disease in low-income communities.
Full Testimony

Food Retail Expansion to Support Health (FRESH)
On October 26, 2009, the Food Bank offered testimony to the New York City Council Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises in support of Food Retail Expansion to Support Health (FRESH), a zoning change that would provide incentives to food stores that locate in underserved areas. To ensure these businesses remain viable and this initiative's full potential to expand local access to affordable, nutritious food is reached, the Food Bank also called for the acceptance of WIC, food stamp (SNAP) and EBT benefits at all food stores receiving government incentives.
Full Testimony

Fighting Hunger in New York City
On November 20, 2007 the Food Bank provided testimony at a New York City Council Oversight Hearing on the status of hunger and the needs of low-income New Yorkers throughout the city. The testimony provides a brief overview of recent research findings demonstrating the magnitude of hunger in New York City, myriad contributing socioeconomic factors and the challenges currently faced by the emergency food network.
Full Testimony

Trans Fat Ban
On October 30, 2006 the Food Bank provided testimony at a New York City Council Oversight Hearing regarding the proposal to add §81.08 to Article 81 of the New York City Health Code. The amendment — intended to improve the nutritional content of food served in all city food-service establishments by phasing out artificial trans fat — may inadvertently lead to an increase in the percentage of food containing trans fat entering the emergency food system.
Full Testimony

Obesity
On June 21, 2006 the Food Bank provided testimony at a New York City Council Oversight Hearing on New York City's Response to the Obesity Epidemic.
Full Testimony

Summer Meals
On June 27, 2006 the Food Bank provided testimony at a New York City Council Oversight Hearing on Exploring Summer Meal Programs for NYC Youth. Check back for the full testimony.