HI HB2582

Establishes an Agricultural Food Safety Certification Program within the Department of Agriculture to develop a certification system complying with FDA Food Safety Modernization Act requirements for farmers and ranchers.

Program shall conduct research into alternative methods for compliance, establish educational programs including online classes, and serve as an information clearinghouse for food safety laws and FDA requirements.

Authorizes the Board of Agriculture to employ one program manager, one specialist, and one clerical staff person qualified to implement FDA Food Safety Modernization Act provisions.

Appropriates $200,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2016-2017 to fund the three full-time equivalent positions in the agricultural food safety certification program.

Effective date is July 1, 2016.