Mississippi House Bill HB814

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Cottage food products; delete prohibition on the Internet sale of.

Impact

The impact of HB 814 on state laws will be significant as it facilitates the modern marketing and selling practices of cottage food operators. Previously, the restrictions on internet sales limited these businesses to local sales only, thereby curtailing their ability to compete in a growing online marketplace. By easing these restrictions, the bill could lead to increased economic growth within the cottage food sector, while also providing an accessible entry point for aspiring entrepreneurs who produce home-cooked or homemade goods in compliance with local regulations.

Summary

House Bill 814 aims to amend Section 75-29-951 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 by removing prohibitions on cottage food operators from selling their products over the Internet. This change will allow cottage food businesses to expand their sales channels and reach a larger customer base through online marketplaces, potentially enhancing their revenue opportunities. The bill recognizes that cottage food operations, which must comply with certain requirements, play an important role in local economies, especially for small and home-based businesses.

Contention

While supporters argue that allowing internet sales will provide economic relief and opportunities for cottage food operators, there are concerns regarding food safety and consumer protection. Critics fear that lifting such restrictions might complicate enforcement of food safety regulations, as it could be more challenging to ensure compliance when products are sold online rather than directly face-to-face. This concern emphasizes the need for a regulatory framework that adequately protects consumers while promoting fair business practices for cottage food operations.