HB4917 eliminates the state licensing requirement for butter graders. Previously, butter used for sale had to be graded by someone approved by the Michigan Department of Agriculture. The bill removes this requirement, reducing regulatory oversight on butter grading and allowing producers more flexibility in how butter quality is evaluated.
The Michigan State House of Representatives passed HB4917 on December 10, 2025 by a vote of 69 to 29. We have assigned pluses to the ayes because government has no legitimate authority to interfere in private commerce, and this bill is a step in the right direction. Licensing requirements unnecessarily burden entrepreneurs and private businesses, infringing on the liberty and property rights that government exists to protect.
United States Constitution
Fifth Amendment
No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.
United States Constitution
Ninth Amendment
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.
United States Constitution
14th Amendment Section 1
All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
