FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 3/26/2024
CONTACT: Phillip Suderman, [email protected] (850) 376-4110
PHOENIX—HB 2042 has passed both chambers of the legislature and now is before the Governor to sign. The bill, which would expand the foods that home-based entrepreneurs are allowed to sell, was unanimously passed the House in February and moved through the Senate this week with bi-partisan support. The legislation, similar to last year’s HB 2509, would permit homemade food producers to sell refrigerated foods and meals, including perishable ingredients like butter, eggs, and meats.
“Selling home cooked meals is more than just a hobby to many Arizonans,” said IJ Arizona Managing Attorney Paul Avelar. “For many people it’s a needed source of income that plays a key role in providing for themselves and their families. We have spent months negotiating amendments to ensure broad support. We urge the Governor to sign this bill to allow people to legally continue the work that they need and love.”
Last fall, IJ released new data showing that homemade food sales are incredibly safe. IJ contacted the seven states with the broadest homemade food laws: California, Iowa, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Utah, and Wyoming. Not a single state has found a foodborne illness to be caused by food sold under their homemade food law.
The food entrepreneurs below who are supporting the bill are available for interviews. Please contact Phillip Suderman, Institute for Justice Communications Project Manager, [email protected] to arrange.
“This legislation holds significant importance for both myself and fellow cottage producers within our area, where access to commercial kitchens is extremely limited. There is a demand from customers for food prepared with premium ingredients on a smaller, artisanal scale. Crafting homemade foods with meticulous attention is our livelihood, and this bill will expand the range and type of products we can provide.”
Sheri Shaw, Kingman
“A home food business is a perfect opportunity for my autistic son to work with me in a quiet environment that is comfortable for him. Our hopes were dashed last year but, should the expanded cottage foods bill become law, it could open that door again. We’re both excited for the future.”
Char Ugol, Scottsdale
“Apache County is one of Arizona’s most food-insecure and poverty-stricken Counties. So many of our residents here rely on home businesses to support their families and food products are an essential and important output. This bill will give many of my friends and neighbors more options to provide for themselves by selling delicious and nutritious meals and foods.”
Gina Irons, Eagar
“Letting people run their food businesses from home will open up opportunity for many Arizonans. It takes a lot of resources to build or rent a commercial kitchen. But this bill would make it possible for entrepreneurs like me to start small and work our way up.”
Brannon Haley, Surprise
“Consumers want more options when it comes to home-baked goods. Passage of the expanded cottage foods bill will let us provide cookies and wedding cakes that simply taste better. We also know that the foods included in the bill can be safely made at home. I’m excited at the possibilities that the bill will open up.”
Michelle Ware, Prescott Valley
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To arrange interviews on this subject, journalists may contact Phillip Suderman, IJ’s Communications Project Manager at [email protected] (850) 376-4110. More information on the homemade food is available at: https://ij.org/issues/economic-liberty/homemade-food/