Iowa House Bill HF799

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/5/25
• Refer: 3/5/25

Caption

A bill for an act providing for programs and regulations related to agriculture, including crop production, animal health, agricultural processing, and agricultural marketing, providing for powers and duties of the department of agriculture and land stewardship, providing fees, and providing penalties.(Formerly HSB 143; See HF 998.)

Impact

The bill's impact on state laws includes streamlining licensure processes and adjusting fee requirements for meat and poultry processing establishments. Established meat and poultry processing establishments will see their license terms extended to two years, which is a shift from the annual renewal process. This change could create consistency and reduce administrative burdens on smaller businesses that often struggle with frequent renewals due to resource limitations. Furthermore, the proposed changes to indemnification processes will provide sellers greater protection in bankruptcy scenarios, reinforcing the stability of transactions in the agriculture sector.

Summary

House File 799, introduced by the Iowa Committee on Agriculture, proposes a comprehensive set of changes to agricultural regulations within the state, focusing on various aspects such as crop production, animal health, agricultural marketing, and the licensing of agricultural operations. A significant aspect of the bill is the introduction of noxious weeds and the regulation of fertilizers and soil conditioners, ensuring clearer definitions and improved rules surrounding their application and marketing. Additionally, the bill aims to enhance the safety standards for agricultural equipment and practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about the potential increase in operational costs for smaller farming operations due to the raised fees associated with licensing meat and poultry establishments. Additionally, some stakeholders argue that the increased powers given to the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS) regarding the regulation of fertilizers and soil conditioners could lead to stricter controls that may hinder the operational flexibility of smaller producers. Critics are also wary of the implications of the indemnity fund adjustments, fearing that they may not adequately protect all stakeholders if a grain dealer enters bankruptcy.