The bill amends the Food Law of Michigan, specifically sections 5107 and 7129, to update the penalties for violations and clarify labeling requirements for food products. It changes the language regarding who can be penalized for violations, specifying that a person "that" violates provisions of the act is guilty of a misdemeanor, with penalties including imprisonment for up to 6 months and fines ranging from $250 to $2,500. Additionally, it establishes that knowingly violating certain sections can result in felony charges, with imprisonment for an unspecified number of years and fines up to $10,000 plus twice the economic benefit gained from the violation. The bill also mandates that the costs of the department's investigation be assessed against defendants found guilty of violations.
Furthermore, the bill introduces new labeling requirements for food products, emphasizing that they must be accurately identified by their common or usual names and include detailed ingredient statements, net weight, and manufacturer information. It specifies that meat products must clearly indicate the presence of certain additives and that products containing multiple types of meat must meet specific composition standards. Notably, the bill prohibits the manufacture or sale of cultivated meat, defined as meat produced from cultured animal tissue outside of the animal. These amendments aim to enhance food safety and consumer protection in Michigan.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 289.5107, 289.7129