GA HB1049

Shields food donors and gleaners from criminal penalties and civil liability when donating food to churches, religious organizations, or charitable nonprofits, unless injury results from gross negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct.

Expands the definition of protected donors to include farmers, processors, distributors, caterers, hotels, motels, schools, restaurants, and governmental entities.

Adds "gleaners" (people who harvest donated agricultural crops) as a newly protected category under the liability protections.

Extends protections to food that doesn't meet federal or state consumer safety standards or isn't readily marketable due to appearance, freshness, grade, or surplus conditions.

Requires donors and gleaners to act in good faith and inform the recipient organization of the food's condition at the time of donation; effective July 1, 2026.