STATEHOUSE—A bill authored by State Rep. Bill Davis (R-Portland) to ensure food safety in commercial vehicles passed the Senate today unanimously. House Bill (HB) 1298 will now go to Gov. Daniels for his approval to be signed into law. Although the federal government provides most of the guidelines for food safety, individual states are responsible for protecting food supplies during transportation. HB 1298 would allow the Indiana State Police (ISP) to inspect commercial vehicles to ensure they are complying with food safety standards. If a trooper would find evidence of contamination, the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) would initiate a thorough investigation. “Commercial vehicles handle our food products every day, but there is no efficient process in place to monitor and enforce food safety standards,” said Rep. Davis. “Ensuring this link in the food chain complies with safety rules is necessary to keep dangerous contaminants from our food.” The food safety legislation was supported by the ISP, Farm Bureau, and the Indiana Retail Council. The bill does not target private citizens carrying groceries; it applies to commercial vehicles that are transporting large quantities of food. -30- Rep. Davis’ bill to ensure food safety passes Senate, 2-24-12.docx |
