This bill permits the sale of uninspected rabbit meat within New Hampshire, expanding the current regulations that only allow such sales to licensed restaurants. The new legal language amends the subdivision heading preceding RSA 143-A:14 to include "Sale of Uninspected Rabbits at New Hampshire Farms, Farmstands, and Farmers Markets." Additionally, it introduces provisions under RSA 143-A:16 that allow unlicensed rabbit producers to sell up to 1,000 uninspected, processed whole rabbits directly at their farms, farmstands, or farmers' markets, provided they meet specific conditions related to slaughtering, processing, and registration with the Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food.

The bill also includes a requirement for clear labeling of uninspected rabbit meat, which must contain producer information, a disclaimer regarding inspection exemption, and safe handling instructions. Furthermore, licensed restaurants that purchase uninspected rabbit meat must retain purchase records and disclose the exemption status on their menus. The Department of Health and Human Services anticipates an indeterminable fiscal impact due to potential decreases in annual license fees as more farms may opt out of food licensure under the new regulations. However, the bill may conflict with existing federal regulations regarding the sale of uninspected rabbit meat, which could complicate its implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 143-A:5, 427:2-a
As Amended by the House: 143-A:16
HB779 text: 143-A:5, 427:2-a