Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF1678

Introduced
2/13/23  

Caption

Genetically engineered organisms provisions modified.

Impact

Under HF1678, the existing statutes will be updated to provide a more structured approach to the regulation of genetically engineered plants and seeds. This includes the introduction of definitions related to regulated organisms and stipulations about permit requirements. The bill also allows the commissioner to review permits from federal agencies and to impose additional requirements when deemed necessary, emphasizing state-level control over agricultural bioengineering. These changes could streamline the regulatory process while ensuring environmental protection, reflecting ongoing efforts to balance agricultural innovation with safety.

Summary

House File 1678 proposes amendments to the Minnesota statutes regarding genetically engineered agriculturally related organisms. The primary focus of the bill is to delineate clear provisions for the release of these organisms, mandating that a permit must be obtained from the appropriate state or federal agencies, such as the USDA or EPA, before any release can occur. The bill seeks to ensure that such releases do not pose unreasonable risks to the environment or human health. A key aspect of the legislation is the introduction of a fee for permit applications, establishing a framework for regulatory oversight of genetically engineered organisms within the agricultural sector.

Contention

Debates around HF1678 may center on the perceived burdens placed on farmers and agricultural businesses due to the permit requirement and associated fees. Advocates for the bill argue that comprehensive oversight is essential for environmental health and public safety, as genetically engineered organisms can have far-reaching impacts. Opponents, however, may contend that the stringent regulations could hinder agricultural advancements and technological progress, potentially placing Minnesota farmers at a disadvantage compared to those in less regulated states. This ongoing discussion highlights the delicate balance between innovation and precaution in agricultural practices.

Companion Bills

MN SF2551

Similar To Genetically engineered organisms provisions modification

Previously Filed As

MN SF2551

Genetically engineered organisms provisions modification

MN HF1587

Agriculture policy bill.

MN SF2128

Omnibus Agriculture policy bill

MN HB06527

An Act Concerning Genetically-engineered Food.

MN HB06798

An Act Requiring Labeling Of Baby Food And Infant Formula Containing Genetically Engineered Organisms.

MN SB3228

GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FOOD

MN SB0125

GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FOOD

MN HB06519

An Act Concerning The Labeling Of Genetically-engineered Food.

MN HB05117

An Act Concerning Genetically-engineered Foods.

MN SF1955

Omnibus Agriculture, Broadband and Rural Development appropriations

Similar Bills

MN HF2446

Agriculture and broadband development policy and finance bill.

MN HF1704

Department of Agriculture, the Board of Animal Health, the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute, and the Office of Broadband Development budget established; policy and technical changes made to agricultural and broadband provisions; rulemaking authorized; reports required; and money appropriated.

MN SF3955

Omnibus Agriculture supplemental appropriations

MN HF5229

Agriculture provisions modified, and money appropriated.

MN SF5365

Agricultural provisions modifications and appropriation

MN HF3763

Agriculture supplemental budget bill.

MN SF2551

Genetically engineered organisms provisions modification

MN HF2280

Beginning farmer program provisions modified, grain buyer provisions modified, commissioner of agriculture permissions granted to protect public health against fertilizer and fertilizer by-products, and biodiesel fuel mandate reporting provision repealed.