Senate supports entrepreneurism with passage of bill

Home-based bakeries and other types of food businesses are one step closer to being able to continue growing their small business without having to rent or buy a commercial property. Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, said he authored Senate Bill 1714 to allow these types of small business owners the freedom to decide when they are ready to move into a larger commercial location rather than the state forcing them.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our state economy.  We must do all we can to encourage entrepreneurism and assist small business owners, and Senate Bill 1714 will help those working out of their home kitchens continue to grow,” Pugh said.  “Current law unfairly hurts these home-based businesses by requiring them to move into a commercial location once their gross income reaches $20,000 a year. After expenses, that is not enough money to support a commercial business.  This bill will allow the business owner to decide when to take that next step and grow their business further.”

The Homemade Food Freedom Act removes the arbitrary $20,000 annual gross sales limit placed on home-based food businesses, and requires ingredient labeling and notice that the product was made in a home kitchen.  

“With the internet and social media, it’s easier than ever to have a home-based business because your prospective customers are endless and you can essentially advertise your products for free,” Pugh said.  “Government needs to support business owners not burden them with regulations. I want to thank my Senate colleagues for approving this important bill and supporting Oklahoma’s entrepreneurs.”

SB 1714, coauthored by Garry Mize, now goes to the House for further consideration. 

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