What is the maximum penalty for a certified farmers market violation?

The maximum penalty for a certified farmers market violation is an 18-month suspension or revocation of certification. This penalty reflects the seriousness of ensuring compliance with regulations that govern farmers markets. These regulations are designed to protect consumers by ensuring that markets operate fairly, and that goods sold meet certain quality standards.

Certification is crucial for farmers markets, as it provides credibility and assurance of compliance with health and safety standards. An 18-month suspension allows regulatory bodies to address violations effectively, providing a period for corrective actions to be implemented while also serving as a deterrent against future infractions. The option of revocation of certification signifies that in severe cases, the market may lose its ability to operate legally until compliance is fully achieved.

In contrast, shorter suspension periods do not convey enough seriousness regarding violations, while a longer 2-year suspension exceeds the maximum established limits, which typically do not extend beyond 18 months. Therefore, the selected answer encapsulates the regulatory framework's provision for maintaining standards in the operation of certified farmers markets.