A bill to amend 2000 PA 92, entitled “Food law,” by amending sections 5107 and 7129 (MCL 289.5107 and 289.7129), section 5107 as amended by 2007 PA 114.
House Bill No. 5879 seeks to amend sections 5107 and 7129 of the Food Law (2000 PA 92) to enhance regulatory measures and penalties associated with food safety and labeling. The bill stipulates that violations of the act or its rules are generally classified as misdemeanors, punishable by up to 90 days of imprisonment or fines ranging from $250 to $2,500. However, more severe violations, such as knowingly breaching specific provisions, can result in felony charges with penalties of up to four years in prison or fines up to $10,000 plus twice the economic benefit gained from the violation. Additionally, violations of section 7129(7) are subject to misdemeanor charges with penalties of up to 30 days in jail or fines up to $1,000. Convicted individuals are also required to cover the costs of the department's investigation, with these funds directed to the dairy and food safety fund for enforcement purposes. The bill mandates that food products must be labeled accurately according to established standards, including the true name, ingredient list, net weight, and manufacturer details. For bulk retail displays, appropriate signage must be provided. Specific labeling requirements are outlined for meat products containing antioxidants, monosodium glutamate, or hydrolyzed vegetable protein, ensuring transparency about these additives. Furthermore, meat products must accurately reflect the type and proportion of meat specified in their names, with stringent guidelines for products labeled as "all meat" or "all beef." Notably, the bill prohibits the manufacture or sale of cultivated meat, defined as meat produced from cultured animal tissue outside the animal. The legislation impacts various stakeholders, including food manufacturers, retailers, and consumers, by imposing stricter labeling requirements and penalties for non-compliance, thereby aiming to enhance food safety and consumer transparency. The bill does not specify new funding allocations but ensures that fines and investigation costs contribute to the enforcement fund.
Co-sponsored by Reps.
Referred to the Committee on Agriculture
