Urges United States Department of Agriculture to declare Salmonella strain that causes human illness an adulterant.
Impact
The declaration of Salmonella strains as adulterants by the USDA would facilitate stricter regulatory measures against contaminated food products, thereby potentially diminishing the risk of foodborne illnesses. This could lead to operational changes within the food safety framework and provide consumers with a higher assurance of safety regarding meat, poultry, and egg products. The resolution reflects New Jersey’s commitment to the welfare of its residents and underlines the critical role that the USDA plays in ensuring food safety.
Summary
Assembly Resolution No. 198 urges the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to classify any strain of Salmonella that is responsible for human illness as an adulterant. It emphasizes the public health risks associated with Salmonella, which is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States, resulting in approximately 1.35 million infections and 420 deaths annually. The resolution highlights the necessity for stricter regulations regarding food safety to help reduce instances of salmonellosis, a severe illness caused by specific Salmonella strains.
Contention
The call for the USDA to recognize additional strains of Salmonella as adulterants may prompt discussions regarding current standards and regulations for food safety. Opposition may arise from food industry stakeholders concerned about the implications of stricter guidelines, including potential costs and operational burdens. Advocates for public health, however, support the resolution, viewing the need for enhanced safety measures as paramount in the fight against foodborne diseases.
Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Chapter 213: Rules for the Salmonella Enteritidis Risk Reduction and Surveillance Program for Commercial Egg-type Flocks, a Late-filed Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Authorizing the animal health commissioner to adopt rules and regulations to administer the poultry disease control act and to establish an annual participation fee for participation in the national poultry improvement plan, a certification fee for persons performing testing and diagnostic services and a testing fee per visit to each location participating in the plan.
Authorizing the animal health commissioner to adopt rules and regulations to administer the poultry disease control act and to establish an annual participation fee not to exceed $50 for participation in the national poultry improvement plan, a certification fee not to exceed $50 for persons performing testing and diagnostic services and a testing fee not to exceed $100 per visit to each location participating in the plan.