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 they may receive reimbursement for expenses.

The bill also amends existing laws regarding food additives, granting the Department of Agriculture the authority to adopt rules for limiting the availability of food containing harmful additives as identified by the panel. 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, including the ability to limit food additives deemed toxic. Additionally, it updates Section 80-1-102 to require the department to enforce these rules in coordination with the United States Food and Drug Administration.

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