The Act mandates the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct at least nine pilot projects to assess the effectiveness of foodborne illness outbreak investigations that do not utilize traceability lot code information. The project results would inform further recommendations to minimize disruptions in the food supply chain and enhance the diversity and availability of food products, particularly addressing small businesses that may bear the brunt of compliance burdens imposed by food safety regulations.
Summary
House Bill 7563, titled the 'Food Traceability Enhancement Act,' is proposed legislation aimed at strengthening compliance with the FDA's Food Traceability Rule and enhancing the processes for investigating foodborne illness outbreaks. The bill presents amendments to the existing Food Safety Modernization Act, specifically revising the requirements related to recordkeeping and traceability lot codes for food establishments. Notably, it eases some of the obligations on restaurants and warehousing operations regarding maintaining traceability information while ensuring improved compliance overall.
Contention
There may be notable points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly concerning the balance between regulatory compliance and the operational impacts on small food businesses. While some stakeholders might view easing regulations as a necessary step for fostering business growth and reducing administrative burdens, critics may argue that reduced compliance could potentially jeopardize food safety standards. Additionally, the requirement for the Secretary to submit a report on barriers to information sharing between the FDA and food establishments could create a platform for discussions on the transparency of food safety communications.
Original sources of campaign finance reporting disclosure required, record keeping and reporting required, disclosure requirements modifications, providing penalties, and appropriating money