30/03/2024
Governor Kate Hobbs' decision to enact the Tamale Bill into law reflects a commendable step towards community welfare, particularly benefiting the Latino community. The punitive measures of sanctioning street vendors or subjecting them to incarceration were evidently inadequate solutions. It's important to recognize that many street vendors rely on selling perishable foods as their livelihood, responsibly providing for their families without dependence on government assistance programs.
I concur with Governor Hobbs' stance that vendors intending to continue vending perishable goods should obtain a food handler card. Certainly, acquiring a food handler card will significantly contribute to the prevention of foodborne illnesses within the community. Street vendors, upon obtaining this credential, will be equipped with essential knowledge pertaining to the proper handling of food, including maintaining appropriate temperatures during food preparation. This enhanced understanding will serve as a vital safeguard, ensuring that the food served by street vendors adheres to stringent safety standards, thus minimizing the risk of foodborne pathogens and safeguarding public health.
Moreover, this initiative underscores the governor's commitment to the Latino community, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all individuals have the necessary tools to sell food safely on the streets. It reflects a proactive approach towards community welfare, prioritizing public safety more than anything else. Preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses is not only crucial for safeguarding public health but also for maintaining the stability of our economy.
“In our democratic society, reverting to past oppressions where chains constrained citizens and stifled their prosperity is inconceivable. HB 2042, enacted by our Governor Katie Hobbs, exemplifies financial empowerment for Arizona's participating citizens, especially street food vendors. Today, Latinos wield an undeniable voice, unignorable and unyielding. Our vote is a formidable power, granting us the ability to elect representatives who truly champion our community's interests, and to hold them accountable should they attempt to suppress us.”
Author:
The Tamale Lady (Imelda Hartley)