Seafood country of origin; Agriculture and Industries Commissioner authorized to test for compliance, notification methods revised, violations further provided

HB 444 requires restaurants and food service establishments in Alabama to clearly disclose the country of origin for imported seafood (like fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster) using specific methods: labels on packaging, menu notations, or conspicuous signs at entrances. The Agriculture Commissioner gains authority to test seafood for compliance and report violations to the State Health Officer, who enforces penalties. Violations incur escalating fines ($100 for second offense, up to $1,000 for fifth offense) after a written warning, though unintentional errors due to supplier information are exempt. The bill updates existing labeling rules (amending Code Sections 22-20A-3, 5, 7, and 8) to standardize disclosure requirements and enforcement.