Rep. Ackert Supports Legislation to Protect Maple Syrup and Honey Producers

HARTFORD – State Representative Tim Ackert (R-8) voted in favor of SB 233 ‘An Act Concerning Cottage Food Products and the Production of Honey and Maple Syrup’ on Thursday evening May 30^th.

This legislation ensures that Connecticut maple syrup and honey producers would be regulated by the Department of Agriculture instead of the Department of Consumer Protection under the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.

“The maple syrup makers have been concerned as well as the beekeepers who make our honey. The process of having to use a kitchen is unworkable for these cottage food groups and I believe they should not be regulated by the Department of Consumer Protection,” said Rep. Ackert. “I can’t tell you how many sugar shacks I see and visit in my district along with the many beehives where as we know the actual production takes place.”

Former Connecticut Farm Bureau Executive Director and now Commissioner of Agriculture Bryan Hurburt testified before the Environment Committee, “Passage of this proposal would provide clarity and certainty to these operations as to how they are regulated and how they can continue their operation… The FDA considers maple syrup and maple candy low risk products. It is unclear why the Department of Consumer Protection has taken an interest in these products given their relative safety.

The legislation was passed unanimously by the Environment Committee, the State Senate and the House of Representatives. The bill waits approval by the Governor in order to go into effect on October 1^st, 2019.