Bill > A08419

This bill updates the licensing and regulation of retail food stores, food service establishments, and food warehouses in New York State. It establishes clear definitions for these types of establishments, outlining that a food service establishment is a place where food is prepared for individual serving, a retail food store is a place selling food for off-premises consumption, and a food warehouse is a facility for commercially storing food. The bill requires all such establishments to obtain a license from the Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets, with a standard fee of $250 for most businesses and $400 for food warehouses. The Commissioner is granted authority to grant, suspend, or revoke licenses based on specific criteria, such as false application information, inadequate sanitation, potential food adulteration, or previous felony convictions of key personnel. The bill mandates that these establishments be inspected at least annually, with more frequent inspections for those failing consecutive inspections. Food stores and service establishments must also publicly display their most recent inspection results. The legislation provides mechanisms for challenging licensing decisions through Article 78 civil proceedings and gives the Commissioner broad investigative powers to enter and inspect food-related establishments. Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for non-compliance and allows the Commissioner to seek injunctive relief to enforce regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8419