This legislative bill amends various sections of the Nebraska Pure Food Act and the Weights and Measures Act to modernize and streamline regulations concerning public health and welfare. A significant change is the adoption of the 2022 Food Code, which replaces the outdated 2017 version, along with the introduction of new definitions and requirements for food establishments. The bill also repeals several unnecessary provisions related to food handling practices and modifies the permit application process and fee structure for food operations. Exemptions for educational institutions and health care facilities from specific permit requirements are clarified, while ensuring compliance for associated outside food service providers. New definitions for food vendors and temporary food establishments are established, including provisions for single event food vendors.

In addition to food safety regulations, the bill revises the administration and enforcement of the Weights and Measures Act, establishing procedures for hearings regarding permit suspensions and allowing for the waiver of hearing rights if permitholders fail to attend. It adopts updated standards from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, with an effective date of January 1, 2025, and revises the fee structure for commercial weighing and measuring devices, including increased registration and inspection fees. The bill also requires permitholders to notify the department of any changes in authorized individuals and removes the previous requirement to return permits upon permanent closure. Several sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska are repealed, and the act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval due to an emergency designation.

Statutes affected:
Final Reading: 89-186, 89-187, 89-187.02, 89-187.05
Slip Law: 89-186, 89-187, 89-187.02, 89-187.05