The bill aims to revise the Montana Local Food Choice Act by allowing the storage of homemade food or homemade food products in retail food establishments under specific conditions. Key amendments include the definition of "deliver," which now includes the producer's designated agent, and the introduction of new provisions that permit retail food establishments to hold and store homemade food for producers, provided certain criteria are met. These criteria include that the food must be delivered by the producer or their agent, stored in a secured area not accessible to the public, and clearly marked as not for sale. Additionally, the bill stipulates that homemade food must be retrieved by the producer or their agent for delivery to the consumer, with provisions for disposal if the food is stored for over 30 days.

Further revisions clarify exemptions from regulations for producers, stating they are not subject to various licensing and inspection requirements, and transactions must occur directly between the producer or their agent and the informed end consumer. The bill also emphasizes that homemade food cannot be sold in retail establishments unless it meets specific licensing and inspection standards, with exceptions for raw, unprocessed fruits and vegetables. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the local food economy while ensuring consumer safety and compliance with health regulations.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 50-49-202, 50-49-203, 50-50-102, 50-50-103