An Act to promote economic opportunities for cottage food entrepreneurs

This bill creates a new legal category for cottage food operations, allowing individuals to sell specific non-perishable foods like baked goods and jams from their home kitchens without needing a state or local health license. It exempts these home-based producers from most standard food establishment rules, such as inspections and complex packaging requirements, while still mandating that they provide clear labels or disclosures about the product's origin and ingredients to consumers. The legislation establishes a voluntary registry where operators can obtain a personal identification number to use on labels instead of their home address, but it explicitly states that these businesses remain subject to all applicable state and federal tax laws. Additionally, the bill ensures that local health boards retain the authority to investigate reported foodborne illnesses and can offer voluntary assistance or inspections upon request.