Senate Bill 1471 and House Bill 1487 aim to enhance transparency regarding the origins of food, specifically focusing on covered commodities such as farm-raised and wild fish. The bill introduces new provisions under Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 53 and Title 68, mandating that suppliers disclose the country of origin of these commodities to food establishments. Additionally, food establishments are required to inform consumers about the origin of the covered commodities they sell, particularly if they are imported. This information must be clearly displayed through labels or signs that meet specific size and visibility requirements.

The bill also establishes a framework for penalties in cases of non-compliance, with escalating fines for repeated violations within a 24-month period. It includes provisions for food establishments that unknowingly violate the disclosure requirements due to reliance on supplier information, ensuring they are not penalized in such cases. Furthermore, certain exemptions are outlined, including for retailers already complying with federal origin labeling requirements and for specific groups such as hospitals and pre-ordering individuals. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 53-1-116