Assembly Bill 154 aims to amend the regulations surrounding the use of certified seed potatoes for planting in Wisconsin. Under the current law, individuals planting five or more acres of potatoes must use certified seed potatoes, with the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) having the authority to waive this requirement under certain conditions. The bill introduces new provisions allowing DATCP to impose geographic restrictions on waivers and grants the department the power to order the removal and destruction of non-compliant seed potatoes. If a person fails to comply with such an order, DATCP or a local government can take action to remove the potatoes, with costs assessed as taxes.

Additionally, the bill significantly increases the penalties for violations. A person found in violation of the planting requirements or record-keeping obligations may face forfeitures of up to $5,000, with additional penalties for each acre planted in violation. The bill also establishes a process for appealing orders issued by DATCP, allowing affected parties to request a hearing within ten days of receiving an order. Overall, the bill strengthens enforcement measures and penalties related to the use of certified seed potatoes in potato planting.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 94.36(1)(title), 94.36, 94.36(3)