IDAHO COTTAGE FOOD BILL 2015
One of my strong interests when running for state senate was to implement legislation to enhance the opportunities of the small farmers of District 5 and the state by removing restrictions on value-added farm products. Originally H106 was written to accomplish that, but was high jacked by H187 which would add limits and restrictions to value-added farm operations.
Individuals who currently sell at the Farmer’s Market who gross over $30K would have to limit their business. This would force successful businesses to either invest in a commercial kitchen (a substantial cost) or limit their activity
Rather than supporting economic development and encouraging entrepreneurship, this bill would discourage individuals from doing cottage foods. Research by Health & Welfare in Washington State (who has a similar law), found that there are only about 200 people registered to do Cottage Foods. Individuals are either ignoring the law or they are no longer doing cottage foods.
Conversely, Wyoming has no $ limit, no registration & no inspection. The law has been in place for a few years with no report of related food borne illnesses.
As an aside, H106 has the language that supports current practices and supports cottage food producers who produce non-hazardous foods. This bill would increase opportunities for value-added agriculture in Idaho. Please show your support and contact your Representative
Rep. Carolyn Troy: (208) 669-0076 Cell (Text Ok) or email ctroy@house.idaho.gov
Rep. Clark Kauffman: (208) 326-4131 or email ckauffman@house.idaho.gov
One of my strong interests when running for state senate was to implement legislation to enhance the opportunities of the small farmers of District 5 and the state by removing restrictions on value-added farm products. Originally H106 was written to accomplish that, but was high jacked by H187 which would add limits and restrictions to value-added farm operations.
Individuals who currently sell at the Farmer’s Market who gross over $30K would have to limit their business. This would force successful businesses to either invest in a commercial kitchen (a substantial cost) or limit their activity
Rather than supporting economic development and encouraging entrepreneurship, this bill would discourage individuals from doing cottage foods. Research by Health & Welfare in Washington State (who has a similar law), found that there are only about 200 people registered to do Cottage Foods. Individuals are either ignoring the law or they are no longer doing cottage foods.
Conversely, Wyoming has no $ limit, no registration & no inspection. The law has been in place for a few years with no report of related food borne illnesses.
As an aside, H106 has the language that supports current practices and supports cottage food producers who produce non-hazardous foods. This bill would increase opportunities for value-added agriculture in Idaho. Please show your support and contact your Representative
Rep. Carolyn Troy: (208) 669-0076 Cell (Text Ok) or email ctroy@house.idaho.gov
Rep. Clark Kauffman: (208) 326-4131 or email ckauffman@house.idaho.gov
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