H 3959
An Act promoting food safety by prohibiting harmful additives in food products
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Bill overview
This bill aims to improve food safety in Massachusetts by restricting the use of certain additives considered harmful in food products. It seeks to protect consumers from potential health risks associated with these additives. The bill would establish guidelines and potentially prohibitions on specific additives found in various food items. It’s intended to promote a healthier food supply for residents of the state.
Key provisions
- Prohibits the use of specified harmful additives in food products.
- Requires the Department of Public Health to identify and list additives of concern.
- Establishes a process for reviewing and updating the list of prohibited additives.
- Allows for public comment on proposed additive restrictions.
- Directs the Department of Public Health to educate consumers about the additives in their food.
- Mandates labeling requirements for food products containing restricted additives.
Who is affected
- Consumers in Massachusetts
- Food manufacturers and distributors in Massachusetts
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health
- The Massachusetts Legislature
Notable changes
- The bill introduces a framework for regulating food additives beyond existing labeling requirements.
- It could lead to changes in the ingredients used in many food products sold in Massachusetts.
Sponsors
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Bill H.3959 194th (Current)
An Act promoting food safety by prohibiting harmful additives in food products
By Representative Garballey of Arlington, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3959) of Sean Garballey relative to additives in food products. Public Health.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Sean Garballey Status: Referred to House Committee on Ways and Means
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Committee Summary
Bill History
Displaying 5 actions for Bill H.3959
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 3/31/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on Public Health |
| 4/3/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 8/29/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/10/2025 from 10:00 AM-1:00 PM in B-2 |
| 9/10/2025 | Joint | Hearing rescheduled to 09/10/2025 from 10:00 AM-01:35 PM in B-2 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time |
| 11/13/2025 | House | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means |
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