JEFFERSON CITY — To ensure that Missouri charities and nonprofit organizations can continue to accomplish their charitable work throughout the state, SB 432, sponsored by Sen. Mike Cunningham, R-Rogersville, was approved by the Senate and sent to the House for its consideration. The bill specifically addresses a charitable organization’s ability to prepare food at community and fundraising-type events.

“It has been reported that throughout Missouri, some health inspectors are prohibiting members of charity or community service groups from preparing food for guests because the food was not prepared in an inspected kitchen,” said Sen. Cunningham. “This ban has a devastating effect on groups that put together charity chili suppers and spaghetti dinners, as well as church events and gatherings after funeral services where food is often served. Food brings people together; it sustains our bodies and is the center of our society. By breaking bread with our fellow citizens, we are able to build friendships and bind communities.”

Senator Cunningham also added, “Instead of hampering nonprofit and charity organizations’ efforts to prepare food for the community, health inspectors should focus their energy on teaching them how to use the best food safety practices possible. Most of us grew up enjoying meals provided by local fundraisers and church potluck dinners, and the positive efforts these groups bring to the community need to continue.”

Senate Bill 432 would allow a nonprofit organization to prepare food in a private home or other area. The consumer must be informed by a clearly visible placard at the serving location that the food was prepared in a kitchen that is not subject to regulation and inspection by the regulatory authority. The nonprofit organization may notify the regulatory authority prior to the beginning of the event. If the nonprofit decides to notify the regulatory authority, that organization must include information regarding its name; the date, time, and location of the event, as well as the name and contact information of the person in charge of the event. This bill does not apply to a food establishment that is regulated by the Department of Health and Senior Services that provides food for an event, or to Jefferson County, St. Louis County, St. Charles County or the City of St. Louis.

If approved by the Legislature and signed by the governor, SB 432 would take effect on Aug. 28. For more about this measure, visit the Missouri Senate website at www.senate.mo.gov.