Purpose

This bill seeks to update and modify various provisions related to livestock market agencies, dealers, and food-related operations in Minnesota. It aims to streamline certain processes, update definitions, and repeal obsolete statutes.

Main Provisions

• Licensing Modifications:

  • Requires livestock market agencies and public stockyards to renew their licenses annually.
  • A separate license must be obtained for each geographical location, even if operated by the same management.
  • Introduces a requirement for licenses for livestock dealers and their agents, as well as meat packing companies and their agents, which are also renewed annually.

• Surety Bonds Requirement:

  • Modifies the surety bond requirements for livestock market agencies and dealers, allowing the commissioner to adjust bond amounts to protect the public.
  • Invalidates any license upon the termination of the required surety bond.

• Enforcement and Compliance:

  • The commissioner is authorized to refuse or revoke licenses if applicants fail to demonstrate financial reliability, fail to pay obligations, or fail to comply with regulations.
  • Violations of certain rules can result in license suspension if the licensee's activity may cause irreparable harm to business partners.
  • Enforcement of agricultural chapters includes inspections and subpoena powers to ensure compliance.

• Prohibited Conduct:

  • Illegal to operate as a livestock market agency, dealer, dealer agent, or meat packing company without a valid license.
  • Prohibits several practices such as using uncertified scales or engaging in deceptive marketing practices.

• Food Sampling and Demonstrations:

  • Modifies provisions for food sampling and demonstrations at farmers markets and community events.
  • Raw animal, poultry, and fish products cannot be used for sampling.
  • Licensing provisions do not apply to individuals engaged in food product sampling demonstrations.

• Certificate Fees:

  • Establishes a fee of $125 for each food certificate necessary for exporting Minnesota processed foods.
  • Requires upfront payment for obtaining any food-related export certificates.

Significant Changes

• Introduction of 'Meat Packing Company Agent': Defines and outlines new licensing requirements and responsibilities for meat packing company agents.
• Enhanced Regulation for Financial Stability: New criteria for refusing or revoking licenses based on financial stability and compliance with existing statutes.
• Repealed Obsolete Provisions: Repeals regulations relating to rabies control through dog muzzling and paperwork requirements for the sale of branded livestock.

Relevant Terms

livestock market agency, dealer licensing, meat packing, farmers market, food sampling, demonstration, food certificate, farmers market, community event, meat packing company agent, surety bond, enforcement, compliance, rabies proclamation, branded livestock, food certificate payment, food law.