Requirements for certification under the plant variety protection act; and to provide a penalty.
Impact
The passage of SB2062 will significantly alter state law regarding the sale and certification of agricultural seeds. With increased penalties for violators—up to ten thousand dollars for each infraction—the bill aims to provide a stricter framework for compliance within the agricultural sector. This move is expected to promote greater accountability among seed dealers and ensure that consumers have access to accurate information about the seeds they purchase. By aligning state regulations with federal standards, this bill strengthens the structure within which agricultural investments and trades operate in North Dakota.
Summary
Senate Bill 2062 aims to amend existing laws related to the certification of seeds under the Plant Variety Protection Act in North Dakota. The bill emphasizes the necessity for seed to be certified by an official seed-certifying agency prior to being sold or advertised. It also outlines specific violations that can result in penalties, ensuring adherence to the regulations established for seed quality and trade. By reinforcing certification requirements, SB2062 seeks to bolster the integrity of seed sales and protect buyers from misrepresentation regarding the variety and quality of seeds.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB2062 appears largely supportive among agricultural stakeholders and legislators, viewing it as a necessary step to maintain the quality and reputation of North Dakota's agricultural products. The unanimous votes in both the Senate and House demonstrate a bipartisan consensus on the importance of ensuring that the state's agricultural sector remains robust and competitive by emphasizing compliance and quality assurance in seed certification.
Contention
While SB2062 received strong support, potential points of contention might arise concerning the implications of stricter penalties on smaller seed producers who may struggle to meet the rigorous compliance requirements. Critics may raise concerns about how these provisions could disproportionately affect smaller operations, potentially driving some out of the market. However, the overall argument in favor of the bill highlights the long-term benefits of protecting both producers and consumers from fraudulent practices in the seed industry.
Definitions, prohibited acts by licensees, schedule I controlled substances tetrahydrocannabinols, and bonding requirements for grain buyers; and to provide a penalty.
In plants and plant products, providing for plant and pollinator protection; conferring powers and duties on the Department of Agriculture and Secretary of Agriculture; establishing the Plant and Pollinator Protection Committee and the Plant and Pollinator Protection Account; repealing provisions relating to bees; imposing penalties; and making repeals.
The gaming commission, gaming stamp requirements, and the attorney general's regulation of gaming; to provide a penalty; and to provide an appropriation.
In plants and plant products, providing for plant and pollinator protection; conferring powers and duties on the Department of Agriculture and Secretary of Agriculture; establishing the Plant and Pollinator Protection Committee and the Plant and Pollinator Protection Account; dissolving the Plant Pest Management Account; providing for violations and penalties; and making repeals.
In plants and plant products, providing for plant and pollinator protection; conferring powers and duties on the Department of Agriculture and Secretary of Agriculture; establishing the Plant and Pollinator Protection Committee and the Plant and Pollinator Protection Account; dissolving the Plant Pest Management Account; providing for violations and penalties; and making repeals.
Grain and seed warehouses, grain buyers, insolvent grain warehousemen, uniform accounting for public elevators and warehouses, and credit-sale contracts indemnity; to provide a penalty; and to provide a continuing appropriation.