Bill > S08388

This bill amends the agriculture and markets law to establish a comprehensive licensing and inspection framework for retail food stores, food service establishments, and food warehouses in New York State. It defines key terms such as "food service establishment" (a place where food is prepared for individual portion service), "retail food store" (a place selling food for off-premises consumption), and "food warehouse" (an establishment holding food for commercial distribution). The bill requires these establishments to obtain a license every two years, with fees of $250 for most businesses and $400 for food warehouses. The New York State Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets is granted authority to investigate, inspect, grant, suspend, or revoke licenses based on specific criteria, including sanitation standards, facility conditions, and potential food adulteration. The bill mandates that the department assign food specialists to inspection zones, conduct regular inspections (at least annually), and take action against establishments that fail multiple inspections. Additionally, the bill requires businesses to post their most recent sanitary inspection results and provides legal mechanisms for the commissioner to enforce compliance, including the ability to seek injunctions and impose penalties. The legislation aims to ensure food safety and maintain high standards for food-related businesses across the state.

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8388