Lawmakers and food allergy advocates gathered in Harrisburg to advocate for the passage of a bill aimed at improving safety for Pennsylvanians with food allergies. The legislation, sponsored by state Representatives Arvind Venkat (D-Allegheny) and Natalie Mihalek (R-Allegheny/Westmoreland), seeks to make restaurants and other food retail establishments safer for the more than 1.3 million residents living with food allergies.
The bill, which passed the House earlier this year with bipartisan support, aims to reduce life-threatening risks by addressing practices in high-risk settings such as restaurants. Representative Venkat emphasized his experience as an emergency physician, stating that many food-based allergic reactions could have been prevented. “As a lawmaker, I know we can do more to reduce that risk,” he said.
Venkat explained that the proposed changes would mandate increased awareness of food allergies among employees and customers in these establishments. This includes addressing cross-contamination during food preparation and ensuring customers convey their allergies to staff.
Representative Mihalek highlighted the importance of knowledge among those who prepare and serve food, noting that it can be crucial for individuals with allergies. She described House Bill 77’s proposals as reasonable measures to ensure safe dining experiences.
Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) expressed support for the bill. CEO Sung Poblete praised Representatives Venkat and Mihalek’s leadership, saying that House Bill 77 offers a beneficial solution for both the allergy community and restaurants.
The Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association also backs the legislation. Joe Massaro, president and CEO of PRLA, stated that many members already have strong protocols but seek guidance on best practices. He believes House Bill 77 establishes clear standards without being overly burdensome.
Kathy Briden spoke at the event about her son Matthew’s death due to accidental exposure to peanuts at a restaurant. The proposed legislation would require establishments to display informational posters about allergens and symptoms of allergic reactions while advising customers on how to communicate their allergies effectively.
House Bill 77 passed in February by a strong majority in the House and is currently under review by the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.
It is estimated that over 1.3 million Pennsylvanians, including around 200,000 children, live with food allergies.
