Bill > HB3157

This bill establishes a statewide licensing system for mobile food vendors, meaning that any person operating a food truck, cart, or other movable food establishment must obtain a license from the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). This statewide license will be valid across Missouri and will preempt any conflicting local ordinances, meaning local authorities cannot require additional licenses or permits for vendors who hold a valid state license. The bill outlines the application process, requiring applicants to provide personal and business information, details about the food they intend to sell, and information about the mobile food unit itself, including its license number, insurance, and any other required state permits. A health inspection of the mobile food unit is mandatory before a license can be issued, and licenses will be valid for one year and require renewal. The DHSS will also establish classifications for mobile food vendors based on the type of food they prepare and serve, which will influence the frequency and nature of health inspections. While the state will oversee licensing and inspections, it may enter into agreements with local authorities to conduct these inspections. The bill also details grounds for license denial, suspension, or revocation, such as violations of food safety laws or providing false information, and establishes procedures for emergency license suspensions if a vendor poses an imminent threat to public health. Importantly, the bill prohibits the DHSS from enacting certain restrictive rules, such as limiting the number of licenses, dictating hours of operation, or requiring vendors to operate outside specific perimeters of brick-and-mortar establishments, ensuring a balanced approach to regulation.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB3157&year=2026&code=R