The bill amends various sections of the Nebraska Pure Food Act and the Weights and Measures Act to enhance public health and welfare regulations. Key updates include the adoption of the 2022 Food Code, which replaces the 2017 version, and the revision of the definition of "food establishment" to exclude certain operations, such as those that only offer prepackaged items or operate in private homes under specific conditions. The legislation introduces new permit fees for different types of food establishments, increases existing fees, and establishes a late fee structure for unpaid fees. Additionally, it clarifies the requirements for food establishments, including the necessity for valid permits and exemptions for certain entities like educational institutions and charitable organizations.

Furthermore, the bill addresses the administration and enforcement of the Weights and Measures Act by establishing procedures for hearings related to permit suspensions and updating compliance requirements for food processing plants and salvage operations to align with federal standards. It includes significant changes such as the adoption of updated standards from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, increases in registration and device fees for commercial weighing and measuring devices, and a new administrative fee structure for delinquent payments. The bill also modifies the notification process for permitholders, requiring them to inform the department of any changes in authorized individuals, while removing the previous obligation to return permits upon permanent closure of an establishment. Several outdated sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska are repealed, and the bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval due to an emergency clause.

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