Nevada proposes cottage food bill to boost home business regulations and opportunities

A proposed bill aimed at modernizing Nevada's cottage food laws took center stage during the Assembly Committee on Health and Human Services meeting on March 17, 2025. The legislation seeks to boost economic growth for small and home-based businesses by allowing farms to host up to four farm-to-fork events per month without being classified as food establishments. This change is expected to enhance local entrepreneurship and provide more opportunities for farmers to engage with their communities.

Assembly member Anderson emphasized the need for these updates, stating, "Nevada's current law is holding entrepreneurs back. This is our opportunity to help others in realizing their full potential." The bill also includes provisions for serving livestock and game animals at these events, which could diversify offerings and attract more attendees.

A significant point of discussion was the proposed sales cap for cottage food producers, set at $100,000. Assembly member Gonzales raised concerns about whether this threshold would adequately support small businesses, asking if there are producers who exceed this limit. Anderson explained that the cap was determined by examining regulations in other states, noting that it strikes a balance between encouraging growth and maintaining safety standards.

The meeting also touched on the potential inclusion of cottage cosmetics in the legislation. Kelly Kelly, a key contributor to the discussion, highlighted recent federal changes that allow small cosmetic producers to operate without the need for commercial facilities, opening new avenues for home-based businesses. However, the committee is still deliberating on how to integrate these provisions effectively.

As the committee wraps up discussions, the proposed bill represents a significant step toward revitalizing Nevada's cottage food industry, aiming to empower local entrepreneurs and adapt to modern market demands. The anticipated outcomes include increased economic activity and a more vibrant local food scene, with further revisions expected as the bill progresses through the legislative process.