What's Happening?
We are considering a request for the 2026 legislative session to update Chapter 69.22 RCW.
Cottage Food Program - Proposed Changes to Law, English Handout (PDF)
Programa de Alimentos Caseros - Cambios propuestos para la ley, Spanish Handout (PDF)
Why?
The Department wants to add Cottage Food Operations into the public health system. This will help us direct our food safety and community engagement efforts with those who want to sell food prepared in home kitchens.
Get Involved!
Feedback Survey
Cottage Food Program Feedback Survey - Complete this survey by July 19, 2024. Your input will help us smoothly shift the state Cottage Food program to Department of Health if passed by legislature. We also want ideas about how to improve the program.
Listening Sessions
Attend a virtual Listening Session on July 22 or July 29, 2024. Sign up for a listening session before July 15 to attend!
Environmental Justice Assessment
Proposing legislation changes is a significant agency action that requires the completion of an environmental justice assessment. Visit the department’s environmental justice webpage for more information on assessments.
Proposed Timeline and Opportunities for Input!
Spring 2024
- Initiate environmental justice assessment.
- Identify overburdened communities and vulnerable populations impacted by this proposed change.
Summer 2024
- Receive community input on the agency’s proposed changes.
- Fall 2024
- Analyze community engagement and input. Identify additional outreach needs and opportunities.
- Gather additional input from interested partners, as needed.
Winter 2024 – August 2025
- Develop proposed legislation changes and environmental justice assessment based on community engagement and input.
September 2025
- Submit proposed legislation changes to the Office of the Governor and Office of Financial Management for their consideration and approval.
If accepted: January 2026 – Provide input to the legislature on the agency’s proposed changes.
Email Updates
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