If you are interested in learning about how you can contact your legislators about creating a “cottage law” please review the information and the sample letter provided. This information would not be possible if not for the contributions, courage and dogged determination and support of the Texas Cottage Food Law.

You will need to:

• Research the home-based baking issue thoroughly
• Be prepared to bring facts
• Muster the support of other home-based bakers in your state
• Muster the support of a State Senator
• Develop a relationship with your State Representative and/ Senator and his/her staff over the interim
• Mobilize support “live bodies” that are in this for the long haul (having more supporters (at a hearing) than opponents is imperative)
• Understand that thick skin is mandatory since the opposition will stop at nothing to shut the bill down
• Exhibit sensitivity and working with your opponent (maintain a professional demeanor)

The primary issue surrounding the opposition of a cottage law usually stems from the fact competition in the baking world will increase and a state government agency e.g. “health department” Department of Agriculture or whomever will have more work to do, usually with less funds and staff.

* Currently there is no evidence from other states with cottage food laws that home baked goods are a health hazard.

Please visit the Texas Cottage Food Law to learn more about working with your state legislators.

• Sample Cottage Law Letter
• Contact your U.S. Representative
• Contact your State Senator