Pennsylvania House Bill HB2117

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/24
• Refer: 3/19/24

Caption

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

Impact

The introduction of HB 2117 is expected to significantly impact existing laws governing food safety and protection. By specifying the tolerances for poisonous or deleterious substances, it aims to standardize practices across the state, bolstering consumer confidence in the safety of food products. This could lead to stricter compliance requirements for food manufacturers and distributors, ensuring that products reaching consumers are free from harmful substances. Consequently, the bill could also trigger revisions of current food safety regulations to align with the new standards proposed.

Summary

House Bill 2117 focuses on enhancing food protection by introducing regulations pertaining to poisonous or deleterious substances in food products. The bill's intent is to set clear tolerances for these substances, thereby expanding the state's regulatory framework to ensure higher food safety standards. Its provisions are designed to prevent contamination and safeguard public health by clearly outlining what constitutes acceptable levels of such harmful substances in the food supply chain.

Sentiment

General sentiment around the bill appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents of food safety, who view it as a necessary step toward better protection of public health. Legislators advocating for the bill emphasize the importance of clear guidelines to prevent foodborne illnesses. However, there are concerns from some stakeholders regarding the potential added regulatory burden on small producers, who may struggle with the costs associated with compliance. These sentiments reveal a divide between public health advocates and those worried about the implications for small businesses.

Contention

Notable points of contention within discussions of HB 2117 include the balance between consumer protection and the economic impact on local food producers. Critics argue that while the intent to enhance food safety is commendable, the regulatory framework should account for varying capacities of small businesses to comply with stricter standards. This reflects a broader debate about how much regulation is necessary versus how much might stifle local food industries, particularly in a state where agriculture plays a crucial economic role.