Sec. 7. (a) A law enforcement officer may inspect a motor vehicle used to transport food to determine compliance with section 6 of this chapter.
(b) This subsection applies if, during the course of an inspection under subsection (a), a law enforcement officer determines that:
(1) the temperature of the food is more than two (2) degrees above the acceptable temperature;
(2) the food exhibits outward signs of contamination, spoilage, deterioration, putrefaction, or infestation; or
(3) the food is improperly loaded in a manner that increases the risk of cross-contamination.
A person who operates a motor vehicle described in this subsection commits a Class A infraction.
(c) If, during the course of an inspection under subsection (a), a law enforcement officer determines that the motor vehicle is not in compliance with applicable rules and regulations adopted by the Indiana department of health concerning the transportation of food, the law enforcement officer:
(1) may contact a health inspector to inspect the motor vehicle; and
(2) may detain the motor vehicle and its operator for purposes of the inspection.
(d) If a health inspector is present to inspect a motor vehicle and finds a violation of section 6 of this chapter, the health inspector may order either or both of the following:
(1) Disposal of part or all of the food.
(2) Impoundment of the vehicle.
(e) The penalty under this subsection is in addition to any penalties provided in IC 9, IC 16, or rules or regulations adopted by the Indiana department of health. This subsection applies if a health inspector, after inspection of a motor vehicle under subsection (d), finds a violation of section 6 of this chapter. A person who operates a motor vehicle described in this subsection commits a Class A infraction.
(f) A person who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally transports food that a health inspector ordered to be disposed under subsection (d)(1), other than for the purpose of disposal, commits a Class A misdemeanor.
(g) A person who operated a motor vehicle impounded under subsection (d)(2) may not obtain possession of the motor vehicle until the person complies with the requirements of this chapter, including paying any costs associated with the disposal of food under subsection (d)(1).
As added by P.L.108-2012, SEC.1. Amended by P.L.56-2023, SEC.58.
