Bill > HB396

This bill allows farms and producers to process a limited number of cattle, swine, sheep, and goats per month at facilities that are not certified by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), which typically means they are not subject to federal inspection. This exemption applies to meat sold directly to consumers from the farm, at farmers' markets, or to licensed restaurants and retailers. The bill also updates definitions and labeling requirements for these "uninspected" animals, ensuring consumers and businesses are aware of the processing status. For instance, restaurants and retailers selling meat from these animals must clearly label it as "initially processed at the farm and is exempt from state inspection" for cattle, swine, sheep, and goats, or "exempt from state and federal inspection" for bison, elk, and red deer. The bill also sets specific monthly processing limits: three cattle, five swine, and ten sheep or goats. Additionally, it mandates that the Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food will provide annual training for farmers on safety, food quality, and labeling.