An Act relative to expanding pathogen testing capabilities for aquaculture

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Chris Flanagan

Expands Massachusetts Campylobacter testing across water, poultry, produce, dairy, shellfish and other foods to boost early detection and protect public health.

Purpose and intent

This proposed Massachusetts bill seeks to expand the state's pathogen testing capacity, with a focus on improving the detection of Campylobacter in various foods and related environments, including aquaculture outputs. The goal is to strengthen public health protections by broadening surveillance and testing capabilities for Campylobacter across multiple food categories and water sources associated with food production.

Key provisions

Amendment to Chapter 111: The bill inserts a new Section 195A after existing section 195.

Testing mandate: The commissioner shall conduct testing for the presence of Campylobacter in:

Water
Poultry
Produce
Dairy products
Shellfish
Other food products

Analysis and reporting: The department is responsible for analyzing tests and samples submitted to it.

Cost recovery: The department may charge fees for testing services, with the fee not to exceed the department’s cost to provide the services.

Regulatory authority: The commissioner may promulgate regulations under Chapter 30A necessary to implement the new section.

Who and what would be affected

Government entities: Massachusetts Department of Public Health (the commissioner’s agency) would assume and/or expand mandated testing and analysis activities.

Industry and producers: Aquaculture operators, shellfish producers, and other food producers or handlers may interact with the expanded testing regime and potential cost recovery.

Public: Consumers could benefit from enhanced early detection of Campylobacter in foods and water linked to aquaculture supply chains.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Bill status: Proposed bill (no enacted status provided here).

Introduction: Filed January 15, 2025, as House Docket No. 2006; associated House Bill No. 3958; presented by Representative Christopher R. Flanagan (1st Barnstable).

Implementation pathway: The bill contemplates rulemaking under Chapter 30A to implement the new testing framework, but does not specify a fixed effective date or funding appropriation beyond potential cost-recovery fees.

Potential impact and considerations

Public health: A broader, standardized Campylobacter testing program could improve outbreak detection and food safety across aquaculture and related food sectors.

Fiscal considerations: The act contemplates fee-based cost recovery for testing, which could influence laboratory workloads and industry compliance costs depending on final fee levels.

Operational scope: Expands testing beyond shellfish to include water and other foods, potentially broadening the regulatory footprint of the state’s testing program.

Note: Status and final provisions may evolve during the legislative process.

Bill