New Hampshire House Bill HB314

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/21
• Refer: 1/9/21
• Report Pass: 11/1/21
• Refer: 1/12/22
• Report Pass: 3/1/22
• Engrossed: 3/15/22
• Refer: 3/15/22
• Report Pass: 4/27/22
• Enrolled: 5/27/22
• Chaptered: 6/8/22
• Passed: 6/8/22

Caption

Relative to homestead food operation licensure.

Impact

The adjustment proposed in HB314 is significant as it expands the operational capacity of small-scale food producers. By allowing these operations to generate a higher gross revenue without requiring a license, the bill promotes local agriculture and enables homestead food operations to thrive. This could potentially lead to increased economic opportunities for residents engaged in food production and sales within their communities, fostering a more vibrant local food economy.

Summary

House Bill 314 aims to adjust the licensing requirements for homestead food operations in New Hampshire. This bill specifically increases the maximum annual gross sales threshold from $20,000 to $35,000 for food sold by homestead food operations. By raising this limit, the bill intends to provide more flexibility for small farmers and home-based food entrepreneurs to sell their products without the burden of licensure. This would exempt such operations from departmental inspection unless there is evidence of an imminent health hazard, thereby simplifying the regulatory framework for these small businesses.

Contention

Although the bill has notable support from local farming communities and advocates for small business, opponents may argue that raising the sales threshold could lead to increased risks related to food safety and public health. The potential for foodborne illness or mishandling of food products could become a concern if oversight is decreased, as exempted operations will not face routine inspections unless an imminent health hazard is suspected. This aspect of the bill might lead to debates on balancing economic growth against ensuring food safety standards are upheld within the state.