Legislature(2021 - 2022)
2022-04-07 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2022-04-07 House Journal Page 2409 HB 415 HOUSE BILL NO. 415 by the House Rules Committee by request of the Governor, entitled: 2022-04-07 House Journal Page 2410 "An Act relating to exemptions for the purchase and sale of certain food products for home consumption under the Alaska Food Freedom Act." was read the first time and referred to the Resources and Finance Committees. The following fiscal note(s) apply: 1. Zero, Dept. of Environmental Conservation 2. Indeterminate, Dept. of Natural Resources The Governor's transmittal letter dated April 6 follows: "Dear Speaker Stutes: Under the authority of Article III, Section 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the Alaska Food Freedom Act. Alaska's food supply is fragile, with over ninety percent of the staples Alaskans use to feed their families being imported from out of state. The lack of a robust, homegrown food industry that is regionally diverse underscores the insecurity local communities and towns face. In order to build a strong economy, Alaska needs to develop its resources, including its valuable, Alaska-grown food. This bill will allow a producer to sell homemade food products to an informed end consumer and to encourage the expansion of homemade food sales throughout the State. The legislation would codify existing cottage food regulations and raw fruit and vegetable exemptions. The bill also allows consumers to purchase meat pursuant to animal share agreements directly from ranchers. If enacted, the Alaska Food Freedom Act will stimulate growth of cottage industries, promote food security for all Alaskans, and allow development of a true "farm to table" marketplace. The passage of this important measure will put food on the tables of Alaskans when they need it most. 2022-04-07 House Journal Page 2411 I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Mike Dunleavy Governor"