Bill > S1283

This bill establishes the "Idaho Direct-to-Consumer Commerce Act" to simplify the sale of homemade food and nonalcoholic drinks directly from producers to consumers, aiming to boost agricultural sales at farm stands and homes with minimal regulatory hurdles. It defines terms like "homemade" (foods prepared at a private farm or home kitchen, not for immediate on-site consumption), "informed end consumer" (the final purchaser who won't resell), and distinguishes between "perishable food" (requiring temperature control) and "shelf-stable food" (not requiring temperature control). The act preempts stricter local regulations on these products, but does not exempt them from laws regarding weights, measures, pesticides, or require compliance with specific dairy and raw milk regulations if applicable. It also clarifies that products sold under this act cannot be used as ingredients in food establishments and does not limit liability for gross negligence. Producers must inform consumers that their products are not government-inspected and display a warning sign, and perishable foods must have safe handling instructions. The bill also outlines specific exceptions for the sale of certain meats, allows for "animal shares" where consumers own a portion of an animal before slaughter, and requires producers to keep records of transactions for two years, which are confidential unless needed for a foodborne illness investigation. Additionally, it amends existing laws to clarify that certain grading and packaging requirements for farm products, fruit, and potatoes do not apply to products sold under this new direct-to-consumer act, and it exempts these direct-to-consumer sales from certain tagging, detention, and assessment regulations.

Justice

Agricultural Affairs Committee (S)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/S1283/