The bill seeks to amend the "Milk Sanitation Code" in Rhode Island, with significant changes including the allowance of raw milk sales within the state, a practice previously restricted unless authorized by the chapter. It introduces a definition for "raw milk" as milk that is neither pasteurized nor homogenized and outlines the responsibilities of milk plants to analyze raw milk and pasteurized milk, ensuring they meet health standards. The bill mandates that all milk-related entities, including out-of-state ones, must have a Rhode Island permit to operate and exempts certain producers and haulers from permit fees. It also empowers the director of health to set necessary regulations for maintaining milk standards and requires labeling of milk containers, including potential labeling regarding the breed of cows.

Additionally, the bill sets provisions for farm home food manufacture, detailing kitchen standards, preparation conditions, and the types of foods that can be produced and sold, such as jams, jellies, and baked goods. It requires registration with the department of health and outlines the process for issuing and revoking certificates of registration. The bill also permits the collection of mushrooms from state lands for personal use, with the department of environmental management setting the rules. It clarifies that income from farm home food manufacture is subject to sales and use tax, and the act would take effect upon passage, legalizing the sale of raw milk and the collection of mushrooms for personal use, among other provisions.

Statutes affected:
7441: 21-27-6.1