FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 5350

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development

House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources

Background: In 2003 a process was established whereby a chicken producer may obtain a permit from the Department of Agriculture (department) for the slaughter and sale of 1,000 or fewer chickens per year directly to the ultimate consumer at the producer's farm. The legislation authorized the department to adopt rules to establish the requirements for the permit. The cost of obtaining the permit is $75.

There is interest by producers of other kinds of poultry such as turkeys and ducks to be eligible to obtain the same permit.

Summary: Instead of being limited to chickens, other poultry producers are eligible to obtain a special permit for the slaughter of poultry. The permit allows for the slaughter of up to 1,000 poultry in a calendar year for sale directly to the ultimate consumer at the producer's farm. Activities conducted under the permit are exempt from any other licensing requirements of the chapter.

In developing the rules to govern the program, the requirements must be generally patterned after those established by the State Board of Health for temporary food service establishments, but must be tailored specifically to poultry slaughter, preparation, and sale activities. The department must conduct inspections to ensure compliance with permit requirements.

The fee for a one-year permit is $75 and a two-year permit is $125.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	40	7
House	98	0