Bill
H 140
Overview: H 140 aims to promote economic opportunities for cottage food entrepreneurs in the state.Purpose and Intent: The bill seeks to remove barriers and provide support for sma
Overview: H 140 aims to promote economic opportunities for cottage food entrepreneurs in the state.
Purpose and Intent: The bill seeks to remove barriers and provide support for small-scale food producers, known as "cottage food" entrepreneurs, to sell their homemade products directly to consumers. The goal is to foster economic development and provide new income opportunities, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Key Provisions:
- Exempts cottage food producers from certain licensing and inspection requirements for commercial food facilities
- Allows cottage food entrepreneurs to sell directly to consumers, including at farmers markets and other community events
- Establishes a registration system for cottage food producers and requires them to complete food safety training
- Directs the Department of Public Health to develop guidelines and regulations for the cottage food industry
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Cottage food entrepreneurs, including home-based bakers, jam makers, and other small-scale food producers, will benefit from reduced regulatory burdens and new sales opportunities
- Consumers will have increased access to locally-produced, artisanal food products
- Local communities may see economic growth and job creation from the cottage food industry
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
- The bill has been referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries for further consideration
- If passed, the cottage food program would be implemented within 6 months of the bill's effective date
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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