The bill seeks to modernize and enhance agricultural regulations in Iowa, focusing on various aspects such as crop production, animal health, and grain marketing. Key amendments include the updated definition of "agricultural land," which now specifies that it must be real property of ten acres or more used for agricultural commodities for at least three of the past five years. The bill introduces the term "beneficial substances" to replace "soil conditioner," clarifying the definitions and responsibilities associated with the registration, labeling, and marketing of these products. Additionally, it modifies licensing requirements for the manufacture and distribution of fertilizers and beneficial substances, establishing a twenty-dollar license fee for each location and updating the terminology related to the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
Furthermore, the bill addresses the management of livestock, allowing the department to adopt rules for certification examinations at its discretion and introducing provisions for controlling infectious diseases in animals. It also revises the claims process for indemnification of losses incurred by sellers due to grain dealer bankruptcies, establishing a separate claim process for repayment losses and outlining eligibility criteria. The legislation aims to enhance regulatory oversight, ensure compliance with updated standards, and promote transparency and accountability within Iowa's agricultural sector, ultimately supporting the farming community and improving food safety and animal welfare.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 6A.21, 190C.22, 200.3, 200.4, 200.5, 200.6, 200.9, 200.12, 17A.7, 200.16, 200.17, 200.18, 200.19, 200.20, 200.22, 200A.2, 202.1, 321.1, 403.17, 455B.411, 455E.11, 200.8, 554.9102, 163.1, 17A.4, 162.2, 169.12, 459.501, 717.5, 189A.2, 189A.3, 189A.4, 189A.5, 189A.7, 203.12, 203D.6, 203D.3, 203D.5, 203D.3A