Senate Resolution No. 1257
BY: Senator SEPULVEDA
MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
November 1, 2026, as Plant-Based Day in the State of
New York
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to increase awareness of issues that
affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, it is the sense of this Legislative Body to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 1, 2026, as
Plant-Based Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the
observance of World Vegan Day; and
WHEREAS, The people of New York State have long valued health,
sustainability, economic innovation, and compassion in shaping a more
equitable and prosperous future for all residents; and
WHEREAS, An increasing number of New Yorkers are choosing
plant-based diets-including vegans, who avoid all animal products, and
vegetarians, who abstain from meat but may consume dairy or eggs-thus
contributing positively to public health, environmental protection, and
economic resilience; and
WHEREAS, Plant-based lifestyles are associated with significantly
lower risks of chronic illnesses including heart disease, Type 2
diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers, thereby improving long-term
health outcomes and helping to reduce the burden on New York's
healthcare system; and
WHEREAS, Adopting a plant-based diet contributes to climate change
mitigation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water and
land resources, and promoting biodiversity, in alignment with New York
State's clean energy and sustainability goals; and
WHEREAS, Plant-based eating encourages broader nutritional awareness
and healthier food choices in schools, hospitals, and institutions
across the state, fostering long-term wellness and education among youth
and families; and
WHEREAS, New York's agricultural sector benefits from the rising
demand for diverse plant-based crops-such as legumes, grains,
vegetables, and fruits-encouraging sustainable farming practices, crop
diversification, and new markets for local farmers; and
WHEREAS, Small businesses-including independent grocers,
restaurants, food producers, and entrepreneurs-are at the forefront of
the plant-based movement, helping to drive job creation, economic
revitalization, and innovation throughout urban and rural communities
alike; and
WHEREAS, The growing popularity of plant-based products has turned
New York, particularly cities like New York City and Buffalo, into
national and global destinations for plant-based dining, creating
opportunities for tourism, culinary excellence, and cultural exchange;
and
WHEREAS, Plant-based eating can support food security and
affordability when based on staples such as beans, grains, and
vegetables, offering practical, nutritious, and budget-friendly options
for low-income and underserved communities across the State; and
WHEREAS, Many New Yorkers are motivated by compassion and a desire
to reduce harm to animals, and plant-based lifestyles reflect values of
kindness, ethical responsibility, and environmental justice; and
WHEREAS, Youth and future generations are increasingly embracing
plant-based living, representing a powerful force for civic engagement,
innovation, and systemic change toward a healthier and more sustainable
world; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing the contributions of both vegans and
vegetarian's honors not only the individuals who choose plant-based
lifestyles, but also the farmers, small business owners, educators,
healthcare providers, and advocates who support this growing movement;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 1, 2026, as Plant
Based Day in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.
