New York (State). Food Supply Commission

The State Food Supply Commission was created by Chapter 813 of the Laws of 1917, which defined state policy in relation to production, supply, and distribution control of "the necessaries of life" to insure adequate supplies at reasonable prices and to prevent speculation and hoarding during wartime. "Necessaries" meant food, feeds, seeds, fuel (including oil and fertilizers) and the tools, machinery, and equipment required to produce them. In emergencies, ice was also included. The commission assumed powers and duties conferred by Chapters 205 and 506 of the Laws of 1917. It could settle disputes; license the manufacture, storage, or distribution of any necessary; regulate hotels and restaurants, and the purchase and sale of food or fuel by municipalities; compel common carriers to give preference to the transport of necessaries; and apply for an injunction to restrain any practice detrimental to the public interest.