Senate Bill No. [number], introduced by D. Emrich, establishes a new Panel on Food Safety within the Department of Agriculture, consisting of three scientifically qualified members appointed by the governor. This panel is tasked with evaluating the cumulative effects of food additives and colors, advising the Department of Agriculture on potential limitations of food products that may pose negative toxic effects. The panel will meet quarterly and serve without compensation, although members may receive reimbursement for expenses.

The bill also amends existing laws to grant the Department of Agriculture the authority to adopt rules regarding food additives, including the ability to limit the availability of food containing additives identified by the panel as harmful. Specifically, it modifies Section 50-31-108 to allow the department to act on its own or based on petitions to establish rules for food safety, and it emphasizes the collaboration with the United States Food and Drug Administration in enforcing these regulations. Additionally, it amends Section 80-1-102 to include the enforcement of rules limiting food additives identified by the panel.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 50-31-108, 80-1-102
SB0155_1(1): 50-31-108, 80-1-102
SB0155_1(2): 50-31-108, 80-1-102
SB0155_1(3): 50-31-108, 80-1-102
SB0155_1(4): 50-31-108, 80-1-102
SB0155_1(5): 50-31-108, 80-1-102
SB0155_1: 50-31-108, 80-1-102