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House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	January 6, 2022 11:07 AM
From:	Representative Angel Cruz
To:	All House members
Subject:	Strengthened Consumer Protections

Without transparent labeling, it is almost impossible for us to make the most informed decisions about what food, drug and cosmetic products are best for ourselves and our families. Expiration dates can be confusing, so we expect retailers to clearly mark expired products that have flavor- and quality-related "use by" or "best before" dates, such as frozen foods, and altogether remove expired products that have safety- and nutrition-based dates, such as infant formula. Failure of a retailer to do so can have life-threatening consequences, as both individuals with weakened immune systems and children under five are more susceptible to food-borne illnesses.  In order to protect consumers and the most vulnerable, my legislation will prohibit the sale of expired infant formula, baby food, and over-the-counter drugs that may be spoiled or that no longer retain potency. Additionally, the bill will require cosmetic and food products past their "use by" or "best before" dates to be separated from all unexpired products with clear signage that the products have expired. This will prevent instances of sell-by dates from being hidden from view with price tags or other stickers.  It should be as easy as possible for busy families to identify crucial information about the products they purchase for their households, and expired medications and baby food should never be an option. Please join me in empowering our residents to make the best choices for their health and safety by co-sponsoring this proposal.

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