The bill amends Chapter 23-20.12 entitled "Food Allergy Awareness in Food-Service Establishments" by establishing a food allergy awareness program under the direction of the health department. The program mandates that food-service establishments display a poster with food allergy awareness information in the staff area, include a specific notice on all menus informing customers of their obligation to inform the server about any food allergies, and designate a manager knowledgeable about food allergy issues related to food preparation. The language for the menu notice is specified and must include a warning about the risks of food allergens, the potential for serious illness, anaphylactic shock, and death, as well as a caution for vulnerable consumers regarding the consumption of thoroughly cooked seafood and other animal-origin foods.

Additionally, the bill requires the health department to establish a system for digital or in-person inspections of menus to ensure compliance with these provisions. Restaurants that fail to comply with the menu warning requirements will receive a written warning for a first offense and may be fined up to $500 for subsequent offenses. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
7325: 23-20.12-2