This bill establishes a new legal framework that limits the liability of food dealers and owners of commercial vehicles when they donate food to an Iowa food bank association (IFBA). It introduces definitions for terms such as "commercial vehicle," "evidently safe food," and "food dealer," and specifies that a food dealer is not liable for injuries or damages resulting from the consumption of evidently safe food donated to an IFBA, provided they had no actual knowledge that the food could cause harm. However, this liability protection does not apply if the food was prepared or distributed by an unlicensed dealer, was unsafe for consumption, or if the dealer intentionally misrepresented the food.
Additionally, the bill extends similar liability protections to owners of commercial vehicles who transport evidently safe food to an IFBA, under the same conditions. The legislation emphasizes the importance of compliance with health and safety regulations, including proper time and temperature controls to prevent foodborne illnesses. The bill aims to encourage food donations by reducing the legal risks associated with such acts, thereby supporting food banks and addressing food insecurity in Iowa.