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Senate committee holds public hearing on bill to permit maple syrup processors
Summary
The Washington State Senate Agriculture and Natural Resource Committee held a public hearing on Senate Bill 5778, which would create a permitting program and safety requirements for maple syrup processing operations while easing some existing licensing burdens for small producers.
The Washington State Senate Agriculture and Natural Resource Committee held a public hearing on Senate Bill 5778, which would establish permitting standards, operational rules, and enforcement authority for maple syrup processing operations in Washington state.
Committee staff said the bill defines a maple syrup processing operation (MSPO) to include collection of sap, processing into syrup and related facilities and employees, and would require MSPOs to obtain a permit from the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) every two years, with an initial WSDA inspection before permitting.
Elena Becker, committee staff, told lawmakers the bill lets the WSDA adopt rules for MSPOs but prohibits requiring a permanent structure, installing plumbing in the processing area, or having running water on-site. Becker summarized enforcement as allowing the WSDA to deny, suspend or…
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