H.B. No. 2844 introduces new regulations for food service establishments in Texas, particularly focusing on small-scale food businesses and mobile food vendors. The bill establishes a "Small-Scale Food Business Permit Exemptions" section, defining such businesses as those with less than $1.5 million in annual gross revenue. It prohibits local authorities from requiring permits or fees for these businesses, provided they hold a relevant permit or are licensed as food manufacturers. Additionally, the bill creates Chapter 437B, which mandates that mobile food vendors must obtain a license to operate, outlines the application process, and restricts local authorities from prohibiting licensed vendors from operating in their jurisdictions.

The legislation also includes amendments to health inspection and licensing procedures for mobile food vendors, requiring the department to set inspection fees based on average costs and to develop a comprehensive guide for licensing procedures. A statewide database will be established to track licensed vendors and their compliance with health standards. The bill clarifies that individuals cannot operate food establishments in areas without permit requirements unless they possess a permit issued by the department and repeals Section 437A.003. The executive commissioner must adopt necessary rules by May 1, 2026, with mobile food vendors required to hold a license under the new chapter starting July 1, 2026, while some provisions will take effect earlier on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 437.001, Health and Safety Code 437.002, Health and Safety Code 437.003, Health and Safety Code 437.004, Health and Safety Code 437.0055, Health and Safety Code 437.0057, Health and Safety Code 437.0076, Health and Safety Code 437.0095, Health and Safety Code 437.012, Health and Safety Code 437.014, Health and Safety Code 437.0145, Health and Safety Code 437.015, Health and Safety Code 437.016, Health and Safety Code 437.0165, Health and Safety Code 437.0185, Health and Safety Code 437.021, Health and Safety Code 121.0035, Penal Code 37.01, Health and Safety Code 437.0073 (Health and Safety Code 121, Penal Code 37, Health and Safety Code 437)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 437.0055 (Health and Safety Code 121, Penal Code 37, Health and Safety Code 437)
Engrossed: Health and Safety Code 437.0055 (Health and Safety Code 121, Penal Code 37, Health and Safety Code 437)
Senate Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 437.0055 (Health and Safety Code 121, Penal Code 37, Health and Safety Code 437)
Enrolled: Health and Safety Code 437.0055 (Health and Safety Code 121, Penal Code 37, Health and Safety Code 437)