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HB 4917

Food: other; licensing of butter graders; eliminate. Amends sec. 157 of 2001 PA 267 (MCL 288.717).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Alexander and 5 co-sponsors

Michigan eliminates state butter grader licensing requirements, reducing regulatory oversight of product quality assurance while cutting compliance costs for producers.

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#food:other
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Bill Summary · HB 4917

Legislative bill overview

HB 4917 eliminates the licensing requirement for butter graders in Michigan by amending the 2001 Food Safety Act. Currently, individuals who grade butter for quality and standards must obtain a state license; this bill removes that regulatory requirement entirely.

Why is this important

Butter grading is a technical function that ensures product quality and consumer protection by verifying fat content, moisture levels, and other standards. Eliminating the licensing requirement could reduce regulatory costs for butter producers but may also reduce oversight of quality assurance in a food product that remains subject to other safety regulations.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer protection: Removing licensing requirements eliminates a credentialing standard that verifies graders have adequate knowledge of butter quality standards and testing procedures
  • Industry impact: Small producers may benefit from reduced compliance costs, while larger operations may already employ certified staff and see minimal savings
  • Regulatory consistency: Michigan may diverge from federal USDA butter grading standards or other states' approaches, creating potential market complications

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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