New Hampshire House Bill HB1628

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/15/23
• Refer: 12/15/23
• Report Pass: 3/13/24
• Engrossed: 3/26/24
• Refer: 3/26/24
• Report Pass: 5/7/24
• Enrolled: 7/2/24
• Chaptered: 7/26/24
• Passed: 7/26/24

Caption

Relative to regulatory authority for apples, coal grading, potatoes, cider, milk, and lumber.

Impact

One of the primary impacts of HB 1628 is the establishment of specific requirements for the production and sale of apples and cider, aligning them more closely with USDA standards. The bill mandates that any cider labeled as New Hampshire-produced must indeed be produced within the state, instilling a sense of authenticity and accountability in its marketing. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for establishing clear definitions and rules regarding the manufacturing and sale of cider, including labeling requirements that must describe its contents accurately. These regulations are intended to protect consumers and promote fair market practices.

Summary

House Bill 1628 is a legislative act in New Hampshire that pertains to the regulation of agricultural products, specifically focusing on apples, cider, coal grading, potatoes, milk, and lumber. The bill aims to streamline and consolidate existing regulations by repealing certain statutes that have been found to be preempted by federal law and transferring regulatory authority to a centralized chapter concerned with farm product standards. This move underscores a significant shift towards more uniform guidelines pertaining to the production, sale, and marketing of these commodities.

Contention

There has been notable contention surrounding HB 1628, particularly with respect to the repeal of certain organic certification standards. Critics argue that eliminating these regulations may undermine consumer confidence in organic labeling and reduce the marketability of organic products in New Hampshire. Additionally, the removal of previously established coal grading and agricultural standards raises concerns among local farmers and businesses about how this legislation may affect their operational compliance and market positioning. Advocacy groups have expressed worries about the potential consequences for local producers who rely on these defined standards to ensure product quality and consumer safety.