The bill seeks to modernize and enhance agricultural regulations in Iowa, focusing on crop production, animal health, and agricultural processing. It redefines "agricultural land" and introduces new terms such as "beneficial substance" and "plant amendment," which clarify the types of activities and products involved in agriculture. The legislation updates outdated terminology, replacing "state chemist" with "bureau chief of the Iowa laboratory bureau," and refines definitions related to fertilizers and soil amendments. It establishes clearer guidelines for the analysis of agricultural products and the responsibilities of the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS), aiming to ensure compliance with current scientific standards and improve agricultural outcomes.

Additionally, the bill amends regulations concerning the licensing, registration, and labeling of fertilizers and soil conditioners, now referred to as "beneficial substances." It mandates licensing for manufacturers and distributors, introduces inspection fees, and establishes a groundwater protection fee for nitrogen-based fertilizers. The bill also enhances the authority of DALS to adopt rules for safe handling and storage, manage infectious diseases in livestock, and streamline veterinary medicine practices. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen the regulatory framework for agricultural products and practices, ensuring safety, efficacy, and compliance with both state and federal standards.

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