The bill seeks to modernize and enhance agricultural regulations in Iowa, focusing on crop production, animal health, and agricultural processing. It introduces significant amendments, including the redefinition of "agricultural land" and the replacement of "soil conditioner" with "beneficial substance," which encompasses a wider range of products that support plant growth. The bill also updates the roles within the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS), changing references from "state chemist" to "bureau chief of the Iowa laboratory bureau." Additionally, it establishes new definitions for terms related to fertilizers and agricultural products, clarifies the responsibilities of licensees, and outlines the evidence required in contested cases.

Further provisions include the introduction of licensing requirements for individuals involved in the manufacturing and distribution of fertilizers and beneficial substances, with a $20 fee and a two-year license expiration. The bill mandates registration and labeling of commercial fertilizers and beneficial substances, including guaranteed analysis and active ingredient content. It also establishes inspection fees and empowers DALS to adopt rules for compliance, including a groundwater protection fee for nitrogen-based fertilizers. In terms of animal health, the bill allows for emergency rulemaking to control infectious diseases and expands disciplinary actions against veterinarians. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the safety, efficacy, and regulatory framework of agricultural practices in Iowa.

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