Pennsylvania House Bill HB1170

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/18/23
• Refer: 5/18/23
• Refer: 6/6/23
• Report Pass: 6/14/23
• Refer: 6/14/23
• Report Pass: 6/20/23
• Engrossed: 6/20/23
• Refer: 6/29/23
• Refer: 10/24/23
• Report Pass: 10/24/23
• Enrolled: 11/1/23
• Chaptered: 11/6/23
• Passed: 11/6/23

Caption

Further providing for title of act; in purpose, short title and definitions, further providing for definitions and construction; in organization of the board, further providing for appointment and terms of members and quorum; in licenses of milk dealers, further providing for grounds for refusal, suspension or revocation; in moneys and expenses of board, further providing for expenses and for payment; and, in saving provisions, repealing provisions relating to Joint Study Committee.

Impact

The legislation is expected to have a considerable impact on state laws related to agriculture, particularly those affecting the dairy industry. By reorganizing the Pennsylvania Milk Board and clearly defining its functions and powers, the bill aims to streamline the marketing and distribution of milk. This may enhance accountability within the industry and ensure that pricing structures reflect the realities of the market. The broader implications could encompass increased consumer protection measures as the board outlines standards and compliance measures more clearly.

Summary

House Bill 1170 aims to amend the existing Milk Marketing Law governing the production, distribution, and sale of milk in Pennsylvania. The bill seeks to create a more structured regulatory environment by outlining the powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Milk Board specifically, which includes establishing pricing mechanisms for milk products. It also encompasses provisions for the licensing of milk dealers, requiring them to maintain specific standards and file necessary documentation to operate legally. Changes include provisions for appeals regarding board decisions, defining perjury, and establishing penalties for violations of the law.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1170 appears to be largely positive, particularly among stakeholders in the dairy industry who anticipate that clearer regulations will create a more favorable business environment. Supporters argue that the bill will help stabilize prices for milk, protect producers, and ensure quality standards. However, there may be concerns from certain players in the market regarding the implications for existing business models and the potential for increased regulation amidst a backdrop of competitive pressures.

Contention

While the bill seems to have general support, some points of contention arose during discussions, particularly about the power dynamics between state regulations and local market needs. Critics might argue that overly stringent regulations can stifle smaller producers who may struggle with the associated compliance costs. Additionally, the bill's emphasis on establishing penalties and regulatory authority may raise concerns about how such measures will be applied and enforced in practice, creating a potential divide between larger and smaller dairy business operations.