Bill > HB05134

This bill establishes new regulations for rabbit processing in the state by designating the Commissioner of Agriculture as the primary official responsible for inspecting producers and rabbit processing facilities. The bill defines a "producer" as a person engaged in farming who breeds, raises, or keeps up to 1,000 rabbits annually for food production. The Commissioner or a designated agent will conduct inspections that must comply with federal regulations, particularly those related to health, sanitation, and safety standards. Rabbit processing facilities that successfully pass Department of Agriculture inspections will be approved as food sources for various consumer establishments, including households, restaurants, hotels, boarding houses, and retail food establishments. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on October 1, 2025, with the aim of creating a structured framework for safe rabbit processing and providing consumers and food businesses with a local source of rabbit meat.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Environment Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB05134&which_year=2025