Relating to notice provided by food service establishments serving shrimp imported from outside of the United States.
Impact
As a result of the implementation of HB749, food service establishments will need to adopt new practices to ensure compliance with the law. This includes the necessity of developing and displaying notices about shrimp importation, which may involve additional costs for printing menus or signage. The bill sets a compliance date of March 1, 2026, allowing food service providers some time to adjust their practices before the new regulations take effect. This provision also reflects an understanding of the operational challenges that may arise from the law's requirements.
Summary
House Bill 749 introduces specific requirements for food service establishments that serve shrimp imported from outside of the United States. Under this bill, any establishment offering such shrimp must notify customers that the shrimp is imported. This notification can be provided by posting a notice prominently in the establishment or including it on the menu. This legislative measure aims to enhance consumer awareness regarding the origin of the shrimp they are consuming, thereby promoting transparency in food service.
Contention
There is potential for contention around the bill, revolving primarily around the implications for businesses and consumer rights. Some stakeholders may argue that mandated notices could lead to additional administrative burdens for food service establishments, particularly smaller ones that may have fewer resources. Conversely, advocates for consumer rights and food safety may see this bill as a positive step toward ensuring customers are better informed about the food they consume, creating a debate over consumer protection versus business regulation.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 437. Regulation Of Food Service Establishments, Retail Food Stores, Mobile Food Units, And Roadside Food Vendors
Relating to regulation of food service establishments, retail food stores, mobile food units, roadside food vendors, temporary food service establishments, and food managers.
Relating to regulation of food service establishments, retail food stores, mobile food units, roadside food vendors, temporary food service establishments, and food managers.
Relating to food allergen awareness in food service establishments, food handler and food manager certifications, and food service training or education programs.
Relating to food allergen awareness in food service establishments, food handler and food manager certifications, and food service training or education programs.
Relating to notice provided by certain public water systems regarding a water service interruption in an area served by a fire department that provides fire suppression services.
Reaffirming an unwavering commitment to the shrimping industry and urging the Secretary of the United States Department of Commerce to issue a fishery resource disaster determination for fisheries along the Gulf of Mexico.