Farmers’ Market Food Sampling Bill Passes Texas House

AUSTIN — House Bill 1382 by Representative David Simpson of Longview passed third reading in the Texas House with unanimous support. Dubbed the “Farmers’ Market Sampling Bill,” it is part of a series of bills by members of the Texas House Farm-to-Table Caucus supporting local foods.

Currently, regulations for sampling at farmers’ markets across the state lack consistency and vary in complexity. Regulations meant for commercial establishments are enforced on and pose unnecessary hurdles for farmers and producers at farmers’ markets.

“Today the House took a positive step toward a more common sense approach to farmers’ markets that increases freedom for our citizens and small businesses,” said Representative Simpson. “By lifting unnecessary burdens off the backs of our farmers, I am hopeful that this bill will encourage a robust local foods movement and increase access to healthy food sources.”

HB 1382 simplifies and standardizes these procedures, making them practical in an outdoor venue. This bill provides consistency and simplicity to cooking demonstrations at farmers’ markets and eliminates some fees to encourage participation from both the producer and consumer.