The proposed "Beneficial Substances Act" establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for beneficial substances used in agriculture, such as plant biostimulants and soil amendments. It outlines definitions, registration requirements, and labeling standards, while granting authority to the New Mexico Department of Agriculture and the Board of Regents of New Mexico State University. The Act preempts local regulations, ensuring that only state-level oversight governs the registration, packaging, labeling, and distribution of these substances. Key provisions include mandatory registration of beneficial substances, labeling requirements, inspection fees, and penalties for violations, as well as the authority to cancel registrations and issue stop sale orders for non-compliance.

The bill also amends several sections of the New Mexico Fertilizer Act, specifically removing references to "soil conditioner" and streamlining language related to enforcement and compliance. It introduces new definitions and updates existing ones, clarifying the scope of fertilizers and beneficial substances. The amendments enhance the regulatory framework by allowing the department to issue stop sale orders for non-compliant products, seize non-compliant fertilizers, and address violations through notices and potential misdemeanor charges. Overall, the Beneficial Substances Act aims to improve the safety and efficacy of agricultural products in New Mexico while promoting transparency and accountability in their distribution and use.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 76-11-3, 76-11-5, 76-11-6, 76-11-7, 76-11-10, 76-11-11, 76-11-12, 76-11-13, 76-11-14, 76-11-15, 76-11-16, 76-11-17, 76-11-18, 76-11-19