Texas House Bill HB3012

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/22/09
• Voted on by House: 5/1/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/14/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/21/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/23/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to food handlers and other food service employees.

Impact

The implications of HB3012 are significant, as it standardizes the training and certification process for food handlers across various jurisdictions in Texas. However, it stipulates that the certification requirements cannot be more stringent than those already outlined in existing regulations. This provision is anticipated to create a more uniform standard of food safety practices, potentially reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and enhancing consumer trust in food service establishments.

Summary

House Bill 3012 pertains to the regulation of food handlers and food service employees in Texas. The bill amends Chapter 437 of the Health and Safety Code by establishing requirements under Section 437.0057. It allows counties, public health districts, and the state health department to necessitate certification for food handlers working in establishments where food is prepared for sale to the public. This effectively includes both fixed-location restaurants and mobile food units, ensuring that all food handlers meet specific health and safety standards to protect consumers.

Contention

Notably, the bill also allows for exemptions where a food service establishment only handles prepackaged food and does not prepare or package food. This discretion may lead to contention, as some may argue that it provides too much leeway, potentially compromising public health standards. Furthermore, the involvement of local health authorities in determining certification requirements adds another layer of debate, with opinions likely divided on whether this enhances public safety or complicates regulatory compliance for food service businesses.