For those who have been following the C4L blog on Illinois beekeeper legislation...

Free the Honey Market
Farmer to Consumer Direct Sales

..., you might be interested in know that the Illinois Department of Public Health has found themselves a friendly journalist after being defeated 12-0 in the House Ag committee and 9-0 in the Senate Ag committee on Tuesday.

A sticky situation

However, representatives from the Illinois Department of Public Health are challenging the bill, contending that unregulated honey is a health risk. Conny Moody, of the department’s health protection office, says she’s concerned about cleanliness and sanitation, even for small hobbyist facilities.
“Tainted honey can contain pathogens or chemicals,” Watkins says. “It’s not often the case with hobby beekeepers, but the issue is, a lot of food is changing. Peanut butter is growing bacteria now. The possibility is there.”

No other food is allowed manufacturing without health department inspection, Watkins says, and the bill would create a dangerous precedent.
As an Illinois Beekeeper, if this issue is important to you I'd appreciate your taking a minute and commenting on the story.

Thanks,
XNN