Legislation that would place micro markets under the jurisdiction of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, rather than the Alabama Department of Public Health, awaits debate in both chambers of the Alabama Legislature.

At its Wednesday, Feb. 19, meeting, the House Health Committee approved HB97 by Rep. Paul Lee, R-Dothan, sending it to the full House for consideration. The Senate Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee approved the companion legislation – SB137 by Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn – on Feb. 12, setting it up for debate by the full Senate.

Micro markets are unmanned, self-checkout retail food service facilities that are indoors. The food can be displayed on an open rack or cooler, in a vending machine or in a single-serving, self-serve beverage dispenser, according to the bill.

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