House approves bill expanding sale of unpasteurized dairy products after debate on safety and labeling

Representative Acton presented House Bill 320 to allow manufacturers to sell additional unpasteurized dairy products (for example, cheeses) while retaining regulatory oversight by the Department of Food and Agriculture and requiring clear labeling. "This bill, HB 320, concerns the sale of unpasteurized dairy products," Acton told the chamber, saying the change replaces nine words in statute with two and clarifies permitted products.

Representative Koehler spoke in opposition, citing public-health risks associated with raw milk products: "In the modern world, we tend to take care of raw milk products less carefully, and they tend to get become bacterial filled quite quickly," he said, describing past outbreaks and their effect on the industry. Supporters including Representatives Lisenby, Owens and Lesser emphasized consumer choice, cottage-industry benefits and informed-consent mechanisms; Lisenby said consumers signed waivers when purchasing directly from farms.

Sponsor Acton and others said products would be clearly labeled, inspected and permitted. On the floor Acton stated she expected labels to include warnings for pregnant individuals. After debate, the clerk reported the bill passed the House with 64 yea votes and 9 nay votes and it will be transmitted to the Senate for further consideration.