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New York Assembly Bill A09478
New York 2025-2026 Regular Session
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New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A09478

Introduced
1/7/26  
Refer
1/7/26  
Report Pass
1/21/26  
Refer
1/21/26  
Report Pass
1/21/26  
Engrossed
1/21/26  
Refer
1/21/26  
Engrossed
1/29/26  
Enrolled
2/13/26  
Chaptered
2/13/26  

Caption

Directs the department of agriculture and markets, in cooperation with the department of environmental conservation, to establish standards for designation of native plants, to develop a list of native plants that indicates and differentiates between native plants that are indigenous to New York state and those that are native plants found elsewhere in the United States that are likely to shift or expand their range into NY, to establish a New York native plant designation, and to offer seals or logos identifying native plants as grown in New York state; defines "native plants".

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly affect the way native plants are recognized, promoted, and used within New York. Establishing a formal designation for native plants will help consumers and horticultural producers identify and choose appropriate plant varieties that are ecologically suited to the state's environment. The bill also includes provisions for educating the public about the benefits of native plants, which could enhance community engagement and foster a greater appreciation for local ecosystems. Moreover, this legislation would potentially contribute to agricultural practices that are more adaptive to climate change.

Summary

Bill A09478 aims to amend the agriculture and markets law in New York to establish a designation for native plants. It instructs the Department of Agriculture and Markets to collaborate with the Department of Environmental Conservation to develop standards for native plant designation. Such standards will involve consulting with certification organizations, academics, and nursery professionals to create a comprehensive list of native plants that are either indigenous to New York or are non-invasive species likely to adapt to climate changes in the region. This initiative emphasizes promoting environmental sustainability and biodiversity within the state.

Contention

While the bill aligns with broader environmental goals, it may encounter debate regarding its implementation. Contentions could arise surrounding the definitions of 'native' versus 'non-native' plants, particularly in how they relate to local ecosystems and current agricultural practices. Concerns about the economic impacts on nursery growers and the feasibility of setting up such designations may be discussed. Proponents argue that promoting native plants will help mitigate the effects of climate change and promote biodiversity, while some may worry about the potential limitations imposed on non-native plant sales and the implications for existing landscaping practices.

Companion Bills

NY S08779

Same As Directs the department of agriculture and markets, in cooperation with the department of environmental conservation, to establish standards for designation of native plants, to develop a list of native plants that indicates and differentiates between native plants that are indigenous to New York state and those that are native plants found elsewhere in the United States that are likely to shift or expand their range into NY, to establish a New York native plant designation, and to offer seals or logos identifying native plants as grown in New York state; defines "native plants".

Previously Filed As

NY S08779

Directs the department of agriculture and markets, in cooperation with the department of environmental conservation, to establish standards for designation of native plants, to develop a list of native plants that indicates and differentiates between native plants that are indigenous to New York state and those that are native plants found elsewhere in the United States that are likely to shift or expand their range into NY, to establish a New York native plant designation, and to offer seals or logos identifying native plants as grown in New York state; defines "native plants".

NY A07964

Directs the commissioner of agriculture and markets, acting by and through the department of economic development, in cooperation with the department of environmental conservation, to establish a New York native plants designation, and offer seals or logos identifying native plants as grown in New York state and certified for their quality, for product labeling, advertising, and displays.

NY S07359

Directs the commissioner of agriculture and markets, acting by and through the department of economic development, in cooperation with the department of environmental conservation, to establish a New York native plants designation, and offer seals or logos identifying native plants as grown in New York state and certified for their quality, for product labeling, advertising, and displays.

NY S1256

Prohibits planting of non-native species in landscaping at State parks and forests; establishes grant program to support use of native plants at local parks and forests; appropriates $250,000.

NY A2869

Prohibits planting of non-native species in landscaping at State parks and forests; establishes grant program to support use of native plants at local parks and forests; appropriates $250,000.

NY S07951

Establishes the native/pollinator planting fund and the pollinator highway program; creates a distinctive native plant and pollinator license plate with the goal of promoting the cultivation and maintenance of native flowering plants, grasses and shrubs on land bordering state highways and on other public lands.

NY A09620

Establishes the native/pollinator planting fund and the pollinator highway program; creates a distinctive native plant and pollinator license plate with the goal of promoting the cultivation and maintenance of native flowering plants, grasses and shrubs on land bordering state highways and on other public lands.

NY A09663

Establishes the office of Native American affairs to act as a centralized office for Native American nations to access information on state programs that are provided to Native Americans.

NY S01690

Establishes the New York native plants program to conserve, promote, and enhance the native ecology of New York state by encouraging the use of native plants and ecological-friendly methods and materials on state and local land.

NY A03030

Establishes the New York native plants program to conserve, promote, and enhance the native ecology of New York state by encouraging the use of native plants and ecological-friendly methods and materials on state and local land.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.