Bill > HB623

This bill requires various state facilities in Ohio, including schools, hospitals, county and municipal correctional facilities, and state correctional institutions, to provide religious dietary food options upon request with reasonable notice. The bill defines "religious dietary food options" as meals that meet specific food and food preparation techniques that satisfy religious dietary requirements. Additionally, the bill strengthens regulations around the labeling and representation of kosher and halal foods, making it illegal to falsely represent or mismarket food products as kosher or halal. For example, businesses must clearly indicate when they are selling both kosher/halal and non-kosher/non-halal products, and they must accurately represent the religious certification of food items. The bill also establishes penalties for violations, including fines ranging from $25 to $500, and empowers the department of agriculture to enforce these regulations. Notably, the bill includes a provision that facilities are not required to provide religious dietary options that exceed the federal meal reimbursement rate, ensuring a balance between accommodation and cost-effectiveness.

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https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb623