California Assembly Bill AB1532

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/19
• Refer: 3/18/19
• Report Pass: 3/18/19
• Refer: 3/19/19
• Report Pass: 4/3/19
• Refer: 4/4/19
• Report Pass: 4/10/19
• Refer: 4/22/19
• Report Pass: 5/1/19
• Engrossed: 5/9/19
• Refer: 5/9/19
• Refer: 5/22/19
• Report Pass: 5/29/19
• Refer: 5/29/19
• Report Pass: 6/12/19
• Refer: 6/12/19
• Enrolled: 7/8/19
• Chaptered: 7/30/19
• Passed: 7/30/19

Caption

Food facilities: food safety: employee knowledge.

Impact

This legislative change is significant as it aims to enhance public health protection and prevent food-related allergic reactions, which are increasingly common among children. By mandating more comprehensive training about allergens, the bill seeks to promote a safer dining environment, particularly in facilities that serve vulnerable populations, such as children in daycare centers or school cafeterias.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 1532, also known as the Natalie Giorgi Sunshine Act, aims to strengthen food safety regulations within California's food facilities. The bill amends Section 113948 of the Health and Safety Code to ensure that food handlers working in food facilities and organized camps are required to obtain a food handler card, thus expanding the application of existing food safety laws. The training for this certification now mandates that food handler courses include information on major food allergens and the associated symptoms of allergic reactions, with implementation required by January 1, 2021.

Sentiment

The sentiment around AB 1532 appears to be largely positive among advocates for public health, who see the necessity for better food safety training in the face of rising food allergies. Health officials and organizations advocating for food safety are likely to support the legislation, acknowledging its potential to reduce harmful allergic reactions. Despite this, some may view the additional training requirements as burdensome for small food facilities, suggesting a need for balance in supporting both health initiatives and business operations.

Contention

Notably, the bill stipulates that local agencies and school districts may not require reimbursement for certain costs associated with the implementation of the training programs, which could spark discussions about the financial impact on these entities. Additionally, while the intent is to enhance food safety, there are concerns regarding how easily food facilities can adapt to new requirements without compromising their operational efficiency.