KASUNIC VOTES TO PROTECT VOLUNTEER FOOD SALES

            Dunbar, March 3, 2010 – State Sen. Richard A. Kasunic today said he is proud to have followed through on his commitment to vote for legislation that would prohibit the state from citing charitable groups that sell home-baked goods.

The Senate unanimously passed the bill (Senate Bill 828) in February.  The bill would exempt from the law, food prepared in a private home that is offered or sold by a non-profit organization.  The measure is now under consideration in the House Committee on Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

“While this bill is largely about common sense, it serves to protect churches, volunteer organizations and school groups from overzealous inspectors,” Kasunic said.

The legislation was prompted by reports last year of state inspectors threatening to cite a western Pennsylvania church group for selling baked good during its annual Lenten fish fry.  In addition, a local city health officer warned at a public meeting that local churches and organizations serving food to the public would need to comply with the law by obtaining a business license and submitting to surprise inspections.

The controversy pitted families who donate baked goods and other items at charitable events against food safety inspectors going strictly by the letter of the law.

 “While I understand the need to have strong food safety laws, this bill protects a positive social and charitable function that has been part of the fabric of Pennsylvania communities for generations,” Kasunic said.  “I will urge quick passage of the bill to the Governor’s desk.”

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CONTACT: CHARLES M. TOCCI

PHONE:   717-787-5166