Texas House Bill HB2761

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the labeling of beef and pork products; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB2761 would enforce compliance among retailers by instituting civil penalties for violations. Specifically, retailers failing to label meat products appropriately would incur a penalty of $1,000 for each day the violation persists. Furthermore, the attorney general is empowered to sue for the collection of these penalties, which might include recovering costs associated with the violation, such as court fees and investigative expenses. The bill's requirement for origin labeling is expected to influence market dynamics by allowing consumers to make informed choices about the provenance of their meat products.

Summary

House Bill 2761 focuses on the labeling requirements for beef and pork products in Texas. It mandates that retailers must affix labels clearly indicating the country of origin for all beef, pork, or products made from these meats. If the meat is displayed unwrapped or unpackaged, the display must also prominently feature this information. This bill aims to enhance transparency for consumers regarding the source of their food, potentially impacting buyer confidence and safety in food products.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB2761 may revolve around its implications for retailers, particularly regarding compliance costs and the administrative burden of adhering to precise labeling requirements. Proponents of the bill argue it fosters transparency and consumer rights, while detractors may express concerns over the financial impacts on small retailers and possible complications arising from the law. Stakeholder reactions might tend to focus on balancing regulatory requirements with the realities of the meat retail market.