HB281
Log in to followAN ACT relating to the donation of food.
Amend KRS 217.127 to define "charitable food donor" as a nonprofit or religious organization that is recognized as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or home-based processor, which produces food for distribution to a homeless shelter or to individuals displaced due to a declared natural disaster; exempt a charitable food donor from the licensing requirements of KRS 217.005 to 217.215 and application of State Plumbing Code requirements; amend KRS 217.218 to…
Introduced: January 8, 2026
Last action: April 3, 2026
In effect since July 15, 2026
Acts from the 2026 Regular Session that don't carry an emergency clause or set their own effective date took effect 90 days after the session adjourned (Ky. Constitution § 55).
Plain-language summary
This bill makes it easier for nonprofit and religious organizations, as well as home-based food producers, to donate food to homeless shelters or people displaced by natural disasters. It removes certain licensing and plumbing code requirements for these donors and protects them from legal liability if someone becomes ill from donated food. This is meant to reduce barriers that might otherwise discourage food donations during times of need. Who it may affect: nonprofit and religious organizations, home-based food producers, people experiencing homelessness, and Kentuckians displaced by natural disasters.
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Legislative History
Primary Sponsor
Co-sponsors (29)
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