The Farm-to-Consumer Access to Raw Milk Act aims to regulate the sale of raw milk in Ohio by establishing clear definitions, licensing requirements, and safety protocols. The bill defines "raw milk" as unpasteurized milk from cows, goats, or sheep and mandates that raw milk retailers obtain a valid license. It also requires specific labeling that includes a warning about the health risks of consuming raw milk. Consumers must sign a liability waiver acknowledging these risks before purchasing. Additionally, the bill sets forth monthly testing requirements for harmful bacteria and stipulates that raw milk can only be sold on the farm where it is produced or at registered farm markets. The director of agriculture is empowered to create rules to ensure sanitary practices in the production, storage, and sale of raw milk.

Moreover, the bill introduces regulations for raw milk used as animal feed, requiring that only licensed individuals can sell it for this purpose, with containers labeled "NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION." Retailers must hold both a raw milk retailer license and a raw milk feed license to sell raw milk for human consumption. Regular testing for brucellosis and tuberculosis in milking animals, as well as monthly testing of water sources, is also mandated. The legislation establishes a dairy industry fund to support the Department of Agriculture's division of dairy, funded by inspection and license fees, and outlines a licensing process with annual renewals and penalties for violations. Existing sections of the Revised Code related to these regulations will be repealed, with the new provisions taking effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 917.01, 917.02, 917.04, 917.07, 917.09, 917.99