Bill > HB520

This bill expands the definition of cottage food production operations to include nonprofit organizations and increases the annual gross income threshold from $50,000 to $100,000. The legislation introduces a new category called "cottage food vendors" who can sell certain foods produced by cottage food operations directly to consumers at farmers' markets, farm stands, food service establishments, or retail stores. The bill prohibits local government authorities from regulating these operations or requiring licenses or permits, and mandates specific labeling requirements for foods sold. Notably, the bill allows cottage food production operations to sell most food items (except baked goods) at wholesale to cottage food vendors, and requires time and temperature control for safety baked goods to be stored and labeled appropriately. Vendors must display a disclosure that the products were produced in a private residence and are not subject to government inspection. The bill also modifies the definition of "time and temperature control for safety food" by removing specific references to baked goods. These changes aim to provide more flexibility and opportunities for small-scale food producers while maintaining basic consumer safety standards. The new regulations will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB520