The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to the Agriculture Protection Act by allowing producers or shippers of perishable agricultural food products, as well as associations representing them, to seek damages for malicious public dissemination of false information regarding the safety of their products. This change would enable these entities to bring actions for both compensatory and punitive damages in a court of competent jurisdiction, thereby enhancing their legal recourse against misinformation.

Additionally, the bill introduces new language to clarify the definitions and scope of the statute. Specifically, it modifies the existing text to include the term "or" to broaden the eligibility for bringing an action, ensuring that all relevant parties are covered under the law. The bill aims to strengthen protections for agricultural producers and shippers against harmful misinformation that could impact their businesses.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-113