Bill > SB415

This bill establishes new labeling requirements for grade A pasteurized milk sold in Montana, mandating that milk processors include a "best by" date (which can also be called a "use by" date) on each milk container to indicate how many days after pasteurization the milk should remain fresh and safe for consumer purchase. The bill specifies detailed requirements for these labels, including that they must be displayed in Arabic numerals or standard abbreviations, use contrasting colors, be at least 1/8 inch in height, and be placed in specific locations on milk containers depending on the type of container. The law allows milk that does not comply with these labeling requirements to be seized and destroyed by department agents. Notably, the bill prohibits the Department of Livestock from creating new rules to implement this section, requires the department to amend an existing rule to remove the definition of a "sell by" date, and repeals several existing administrative rules related to milk labeling. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage and is intended to be integrated into Montana's existing livestock and agriculture regulations.