California Assembly Bill AB719

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/21
• Refer: 2/25/21
• Report Pass: 3/30/21
• Refer: 4/5/21
• Report Pass: 4/22/21
• Refer: 4/26/21
• Report Pass: 4/29/21
• Refer: 4/29/21
• Refer: 5/19/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 6/1/21
• Refer: 6/2/21
• Refer: 6/9/21
• Report Pass: 6/22/21
• Refer: 6/22/21
• Report Pass: 7/1/21
• Refer: 7/1/21
• Refer: 7/15/21
• Report Pass: 8/26/21
• Enrolled: 8/31/22
• Chaptered: 9/28/22
• Passed: 9/28/22

Caption

Bees.

Impact

The bill revises definitions pertinent to the beekeeping industry, including pests that affect bees, emphasizing regulatory consultation with the beekeeping community to ensure that policy development reflects industry needs. Additionally, the bill extends certain regulatory requirements under the Apiary Protection Act to brokers, who manage beehives, thus giving the state more authority in ensuring compliance and health standards across all aspects of beekeeping operations. This extension helps reinforce accountability and enhances the framework for pest control and bee health management.

Summary

Assembly Bill 719 amends several sections of the Food and Agricultural Code related to the beekeeping industry in California. One of the significant changes is the expansion of the Apiary Board from five to seven members, ensuring that six members are registered beekeepers who actively represent different functions in the industry such as queen breeding and honey production. This amendment is intended to enhance the board's expertise and effectively manage the state's beekeeping concerns, thereby improving industry governance.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding AB 719 appears to be positive among stakeholders in the beekeeping community, as it seeks to enhance the representation of beekeepers on the Apiary Board and modernizes the regulatory framework governing their practices. However, there may be concerns regarding the added regulatory requirements for brokers and how that may affect their operations and profitability. Nonetheless, the focus on improved governance and health standards is generally welcomed by industry advocates.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the new inclusion of brokers under the regulatory framework, as this could impose additional administrative burdens and potential penalties for non-compliance. Some industry members might argue against increased oversight, advocating for a more supportive rather than punitive approach to managing beekeeping practices. Furthermore, establishing clear definitions and standards concerning pests can lead to debates about which organisms should be included and how to manage their control effectively.