Bill > S0090

This bill proposes to legalize and regulate the sale of raw milk in Rhode Island by amending several sections of the state's Milk Sanitation Code. The bill defines raw milk as milk that is neither pasteurized nor homogenized and comes directly from a cow, and introduces new provisions that would allow its sale under specific regulatory conditions. The proposed changes include requiring raw milk producers to obtain permits, submit to health inspections, and follow labeling requirements similar to those for pasteurized milk. The bill maintains existing health and safety standards, ensuring that raw milk producers must meet sanitation requirements, have healthy animals, and be free from communicable diseases. Additionally, the bill requires raw milk to be labeled appropriately, with provisions for identifying the breed of cow and ensuring honest marketing practices. The legislation aims to provide consumers with more choice in milk products while still attempting to protect public health through regulated production and distribution of raw milk. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage, potentially expanding milk market options for Rhode Island consumers.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

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