Relating to the marketing and sale of catfish and similar fish by food service establishments; providing administrative and civil penalties.
Impact
The legislation will strengthen state oversight of food labeling practices specifically concerning fish products. By enforcing strict compliance measures for how catfish and similar fish can be marketed, this bill aims to protect consumers from misleading representations. The imposition of administrative and civil penalties for violations serves as a deterrent, ensuring that establishments are incentivized to comply with the new regulations. The penalties are tiered based on the gross annual food sales of the establishment, which makes compliance more manageable for smaller operations while still holding larger entities accountable.
Summary
House Bill 928 aims to regulate the marketing and sale of catfish and similar fish by food service establishments in Texas. The bill sets forth clear definitions regarding what constitutes 'catfish' and outlines the requirements that must be followed by food service establishments when identifying their fish offerings. Essentially, if an establishment sells a product labeled as catfish, the bill mandates that it must only contain catfish and no similar fish species. If any fish other than catfish is included, the establishment must clearly name the type of fish on their menu board.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 928 appears to be largely positive among proponents of consumer protection and food safety. Supporters likely view the bill as a necessary measure to ensure transparency in food labeling, allowing consumers to make informed choices about the fish they consume. However, there may be some dissent from stakeholders within the food service industry who could perceive these regulations as barriers to operational flexibility or increased compliance costs. Overall, the reception seems rooted in prioritizing consumer rights over potential inconveniences for business owners.
Contention
Despite the general support for the bill, notable points of contention may arise regarding the enforcement of the penalties and the definition of 'similar fish'. Some advocates may argue about the clarity required in categorizing fish species, particularly between those that should be marketed distinctly from catfish. Additionally, the administrative penalties and civil liabilities outlined in the bill could be seen as excessive, particularly by small food service establishments, which may struggle with compliance due to financial constraints. The balance between protecting consumers and supporting local businesses will be a focal point for future discussions.
Relating to the regulation of certain health professionals and health facilities; providing civil and administrative penalties; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.
Relating to a directory of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products sold in this state, and regulation of the sale and distribution of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products; imposing fees; creating criminal offenses; imposing a civil penalty; imposing administrative penalties.
Relating to a directory of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products sold in this state, and regulation of the sale and distribution of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products; imposing fees; creating criminal offenses; imposing a civil penalty; imposing administrative penalties.
An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Program Review And Investigations Committee Concerning The Postponement Of Program Termination Dates In The Sunset Law.
An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Program Review And Investigations Committee Concerning The Postponement Of Program Termination Dates In The Sunset Law.