Pennsylvania House Bill HB2116

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/18/24
• Refer: 3/18/24

Caption

In food protection, further providing for poisonous or deleterious substances and tolerances.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2116 is expected to amend existing laws related to food safety, focusing particularly on the definitions and tolerances for harmful substances. The bill would empower state agencies to take a more active role in monitoring food products, ensuring compliance with the new standards. This potential shift in regulation may necessitate additional funding and resources to enforce these measures, which could influence state budgets and agency operations.

Summary

House Bill 2116 seeks to enhance the legislation surrounding food protection by establishing stricter guidelines for the presence of poisonous or deleterious substances in food products. The bill aims to define tolerances for these harmful substances, setting a standard that would apply across the state. This standardization is designed to improve food safety and consumer confidence by ensuring that food products meet specific safety requirements before they are allowed in the market.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 2116 appears to be largely supportive among public health advocates and consumer safety groups. Those in favor of the bill argue that it is a critical step in protecting public health and ensuring that the food supply is safe for consumption. However, there may be concerns expressed by industry stakeholders about the feasibility and economic implications of implementing stricter regulations, specifically related to the cost of compliance and enforcement.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2116 could include discussions about the balance between necessary food safety measures and the potential burden on food producers. Critics might argue that overly stringent regulations could disproportionately impact smaller producers or lead to increased prices for consumers. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the scientific basis for the defined tolerances and whether they adequately protect public health without stifling industry growth.