FOOD LAW EXEMPTION FOR CERTAIN PRODUCERS

OF HONEY, MAPLE SYRUP, AND SHELL EGGS

House Bill 6657 (Substitute H-1)

Sponsor:  Rep. Andy Meisner

Committee:  Commerce

Complete to 12-3-08

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 6657 REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE

The bill would provide an exemption from the licensing requirements of the Food Law to a retail outlet and processing facilities for honey producers of honey, maple syrup, and shell eggs with gross sales of $15,000 or less.

Currently, there is an exemption for retail outlets that sell prepackaged honey or maple syrup produced in Michigan if the outlet is operated by the producer and the processing facility is licensed under the act  the bill would add "shell eggs" to that provision.

MCL 289.4105

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill would have no apparent fiscal impact.

POSITIONS:

Michigan Food and Farming Systems and the Michigan Farmers Market Association provided written testimony in support of licensure exemptions for small-scale honey, maple syrup, and shell egg producers.  (12-2-08)

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Chris Couch

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   William E. Hamilton

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.