Wisconsin Senate Bill SB195

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/14/25
• Refer: 4/14/25

Caption

Serving maple syrup in a public eating place.

Impact

The implementation of SB195 is likely to have a significant impact on both consumers and businesses. For consumers, this bill is designed to enhance food safety by ensuring that they receive pure maple syrup without any additives or artificial ingredients. By setting a clear standard for what can be labeled as maple syrup, the bill aims to protect consumer interests and promote transparency in food labeling. On the other hand, businesses may need to adjust their procurement and marketing strategies to comply with the new regulations, which could influence operational costs and product offerings.

Summary

Senate Bill 195 is a legislative measure aimed at regulating the serving of maple syrup in public eating establishments within Wisconsin. The bill stipulates that any food establishment that chooses to serve a product labeled as maple syrup must ensure that it is made entirely of maple syrup, adhering strictly to definitions set forth in federal regulations. This initiative represents an effort to standardize the quality of maple syrup available to consumers and to prevent the mislabeling of products that do not meet the established criteria for maple syrup.

Contention

While there appears to be overall support for the intentions behind SB195, some concerns may arise regarding its enforcement and the implications for smaller businesses. Critics might point out that small eateries or niche establishments that use maple-flavored products could face challenges in meeting the requirements of the bill without significant alterations to their menus. Additionally, debates may surface around the impact this bill could have on product variety available in local dining establishments, as some places may choose to eliminate maple syrup options altogether if compliance costs are perceived to be too burdensome.