The bill, H.B. No. 3519, introduces a prohibition against the cultivation of castor beans, specifically the plant Ricinus communis, which contains the toxin ricin. It amends the Agriculture Code by adding a new subtitle and chapter dedicated to this issue. The bill defines "cultivate" to include activities such as planting, irrigating, growing, and harvesting castor beans. Under the new provisions, individuals who cultivate castor beans for commercial purposes would be committing an offense classified as a Class C misdemeanor.

The legislation aims to address public safety concerns related to the toxic nature of castor beans by establishing clear legal definitions and penalties for their cultivation. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, allowing time for awareness and compliance among those in the agricultural sector.

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