The bill amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance consumer awareness regarding seafood products in food service establishments by requiring them to disclose the country of origin or importation status of seafood. This includes distinguishing between farm-raised and wild fish and shrimp. New definitions are introduced, such as "country of origin," which refers to where the seafood is born, raised, or processed, and "covered commodity," which includes both farmed and wild fish. The Alabama Department of Public Health is granted the authority to impose civil penalties for non-compliance with these labeling requirements.

Additionally, the bill replaces outdated language and clarifies the responsibilities of suppliers and food service establishments, removing previous exemptions for hospitals. It establishes specific labeling requirements for establishments selling covered commodities, particularly those imported from outside the United States, and outlines penalties for noncompliance. Certain entities, including retailers adhering to federal laws, hospitals, and groups of ten or more preordering food, are exempt from these requirements. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2024, and includes provisions for investigating complaints and collecting penalties to support enforcement efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-20A-2, 22-20A-3, 22-20A-4, 22-20A-8
Engrossed: 22-20A-9, 22-20A-2, 22-20A-3, 22-20A-4, 22-20A-8
Enrolled: 22-20A-9, 22-20A-2, 22-20A-3, 22-20A-4, 22-20A-8