Honorable Senfronia Thompson, Chair, House Committee on Public Health
FROM:
John McGeady, Assistant Director Sarah Keyton, Assistant Director Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB1694 by Lambert (Relating to limitations on food regulations at farms, farmers' markets, and cottage food production operations.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would prohibit the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and local governments from requiring permits for persons providing samples of food at farmers' markets, including those produced by a cottage food production operation.
DSHS issues a limited number of temporary food event permits to entities participating in farmers' markets. DSHS indicates that any revenue lost under the provisions of the bill would be insignificant, and that any costs associated with implementing the bill could be absorbed within existing resources.
Local Government Impact
According to the Texas Association of Counties and the Texas Municipal League, no significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.