Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB1420

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Report Pass
2/15/23  
Engrossed
3/7/23  
Refer
3/23/23  

Caption

Agriculture; Milk and Milk Products Act; dairy inspection and grading program; emergency.

Impact

The amendments proposed in HB1420 are significant as they seek to streamline the dairy inspection process, which might lead to improved safety in dairy consumption. By facilitating cooperation between the state and federal entities such as the USDA and FDA, the bill aims to standardize grading within the dairy industry, potentially benefiting both producers and consumers. This could enhance market accessibility for Oklahoma dairy products by assuring buyers of consistent quality and safety standards.

Summary

House Bill 1420 pertains to the agriculture sector, specifically amending the Oklahoma Milk and Milk Products Act to enhance the regulations governing dairy product grading and inspection. The bill introduces modifications to the definitions related to milk products and establishes that the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry will coordinate with federal agencies to improve the dairy inspection process. This aims to ensure that dairy products meet the health and safety standards set forth by both state and federal law.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1420 seems to be largely positive among agricultural stakeholders. Supporters argue that better coordination with federal agencies will lead to a more robust inspection process, thereby bolstering consumer confidence in dairy products. However, there may be unease among small-scale producers regarding compliance challenges and potential costs associated with conforming to new regulations.

Contention

Notably, there are concerns that while the bill aims to enhance food safety, it may also impose additional regulatory burdens on smaller dairy farms and businesses. Detractors fear that increased regulations could complicate operations for these local producers, affecting their competitiveness in the marketplace. The balance between ensuring food safety and supporting local agriculture will be a point of contention as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB1420

Agriculture; Milk and Milk Products Act; dairy inspection and grading program; emergency.

OK SB889

Milk and milk products; expanding certain definitions; amending certain assessed fees; including certain designation to certain federal agency. Effective date.

OK SB889

Milk and milk products; expanding certain definitions; amending certain assessed fees; including certain designation to certain federal agency. Effective date.

OK HB1162

Agriculture; Real Access to Whole Milk Act of 2025; permit to sell; milk or milk products; effective date.

OK SB1023

Agriculture; excluding donkey milk from the provisions of the Oklahoma Milk and Milk Products Act. Effective date.

OK SB1023

Agriculture; excluding donkey milk from the provisions of the Oklahoma Milk and Milk Products Act. Effective date.

OK SB1080

Agriculture; excluding donkey milk from certain provisions of the Oklahoma Milk and Milk Products Act. Effective date.

OK HB1191

Agriculture; donkey milk advertising; Oklahoma Milk and Milk Products Act; donkey milk; effective date.

OK SSB1107

A bill for an act relating to raw milk, by providing for the production of raw milk at certain dairies, the manufacture of products using raw milk, and the labeling and distribution of raw milk and manufactured products, and making penalties applicable.(See SF 315.)

OK HF338

A bill for an act relating to raw milk, by providing for the production of raw milk at certain dairies, the manufacture of products using raw milk, and the labeling and distribution of raw milk and manufactured products, and making penalties applicable.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.