Raw milk sales will become legal in Ohio if the state’s HB 405 becomes law.
Currently, only cow-shares are allowed to operate in the state. Raw milk consumers in Ohio must join a private membership association to access raw milk, outside existing regulatory frameworks that apply to raw milk intended for pasteurization.
When passed, this law will create a regulatory framework for raw milk production and sales in Ohio.
Enact the Farm-to-Consumer Access to Raw Milk Act
Long title: To amend sections 917.01, 917.02, 917.04, 917.07, 917.09, and 917.99 and to enact sections 917.041 and 917.042 of the Revised Code to regulate the sale of raw milk and to name this act the Farm-to-Consumer Access to Raw Milk Act.
Bill text: HB 405
Strikethrough to be removed, underlined to be added.
(U) “Raw milk for sale as animal feed” means the raw milk sold or offered for sale for nonhuman consumption by a raw milk feed retailer licensed in accordance with this chapter.
(T)(V) “Raw milk retailer” means a person who,prior to October 31, 1965, was engaged continuously in the business of selling or offeringsells or offers for sale raw milk directly to ultimate consumers and who holds a valid license to do so in accordance with this chapter.
(U)(W) “Raw milk feed retailer” means a person who sells or offers for sale raw milk for animal consumption, but not for human consumption, and who holds a valid license to do so in accordance with this chapter.
HB 405’s primary sponsors are Rep. Kellie Deeter and Rep. Levi Dean.
View raw milk laws, which are governed state-by-state.
Find raw milk in Ohio
Find raw milk worldwide
Image from The Local Meat Club in Columbus, Ohio