Bill > SB416

This bill establishes comprehensive labeling requirements for pasteurized milk sold in Montana, mandating that milk processors must place both a "sell by" date (initially set at 17 days after pasteurization) and a "best by" date on each milk container. Processors can apply to the Department of Livestock for an extension of the "sell by" date by submitting scientific documentation proving milk quality, including bacterial count testing conducted at controlled temperatures. The bill specifies detailed labeling standards, such as using Arabic numerals, contrasting colors, specific label placement, and minimum character height. Milk sellers must remove products by the "sell by" date, and the bill allows the department to seize and destroy milk that does not comply with these requirements. Processors selling milk out of state or not directly to the public are exempt from these labeling rules. Additionally, the bill instructs the Department of Livestock to amend existing rules by eliminating the current definition of a "sell by" date and repealing several existing administrative rules related to milk labeling. The new provisions are intended to be integrated into Title 81, Chapter 21 of Montana's legal code, ensuring consistent regulation of milk sales and quality.