Tennessee House approves HB 130 to expand sales of homemade food products

On April 1, 2025, the Tennessee House Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee convened to discuss significant legislative measures aimed at enhancing local food production and utility regulations. The meeting highlighted two key bills: House Bill 130, which expands the state's food cottage law, and House Bill 543, focused on utility service regulations.

House Bill 130 seeks to broaden the scope of Tennessee's food cottage law, originally passed in 2022 under the Food Freedom Act. This amendment allows the sale of homemade goods, including poultry and dairy products, directly from producers to consumers. Proponents of the bill argue that it will empower local farmers and small producers, fostering economic growth and enhancing food security by keeping food sales within communities. The bill emphasizes compliance with federal regulations while promoting consumer trust in local food sources. Representative Renaud, the bill's sponsor, noted that the legislation reflects a growing demand for locally sourced food and aims to simplify the process for small-scale producers.

The committee expressed strong support for the bill, with several members acknowledging the positive feedback from local farmers and small sellers. The bill passed unanimously, moving on to the Finance, Ways, and Means Committee for further consideration.

In addition to the food cottage law, the committee reviewed House Bill 543, which addresses utility services provided by political subdivisions. This legislation aims to prevent local governments from restricting utility access to areas outside their boundaries, ensuring that residents relying on these services can continue to do so without interruption. The bill also mandates that any construction of sewer pipes on private property must allow property owners access to those utilities, thereby preventing local governments from exerting control over land use through utility management.

The discussions surrounding these bills reflect a broader commitment to supporting local economies and ensuring equitable access to essential services. As these measures progress through the legislative process, they may significantly impact Tennessee's agricultural landscape and community infrastructure.

Overall, the committee's actions signal a proactive approach to addressing the needs of local producers and residents, with an emphasis on fostering economic opportunities and maintaining essential services. The next steps for both bills will involve further scrutiny and potential amendments as they advance through the legislative framework.