Representative Mike Tryon Files Bill to Standardize Rules for Illinois Farmers Markets

State Representative Mike Tryon (R-Crystal Lake) has filed legislation to standardize rules and regulations for people who want to sell fresh fruits and vegetables at Farmers Markets across the state.

“Today, rules for Farmers Markets are set county by county by local health departments,” said Tryon. “For those who wish to sell their goods in different counties, it is very difficult to ensure compliance since there is no statewide set of rules and regulations.”

House Bill 5657 would amend the Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act by standardizing the regulations and fees associated with Farmers Markets in Illinois. The bill would address food samples, requirements for disclosure of product origin and mandate a set fee structure for vendors.

“Over the last several years we have seen an increase in the demand for locally-grown fruits and vegetables and inconsistent interpretations about what is and is not allowed at farmers markets is becoming a significant problem,” said Tryon. “The problems are very evident from county to county and sometimes even within the same county, and this bill should go far toward increasing the sales of locally-grown items through a standardization of rules.”