Bill

Bill > SB747


OR SB747

Relating to the application of fertilizer.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2025
In Committee
01/17/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025 Legislative Measures

Bill Summary

The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: The Act tells certain persons to report the use of fertilizer on farmland. The Act allows agencies to take certain actions about the reports. (Flesch Readability Score: 60.7). Requires persons with ownership interests in at least 200 acres of irrigated land used for agri- culture to annually report information about fertilizer application to the State Department of Agri- culture. Authorizes the department and the Department of Environmental Quality to take certain actions related to the information. Directs the State Department of Agriculture to report on the information to committees or interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to agriculture on or before September 15 of each odd-numbered year. Authorizes the imposition of civil penalties for a violation.

AI Summary

This bill establishes a new reporting requirement for agricultural landowners who irrigate at least 200 acres of farmland, mandating that they submit annual fertilizer application reports to the State Department of Agriculture by March 15th each year. The reports must include details such as the rate of fertilizer applied per acre, the type of fertilizer used, and the crops grown in each field. The purpose of these reports is to help state agencies identify and address potential environmental concerns, such as fertilizer runoff that could contaminate surface or groundwater. The Department of Agriculture can use this information to provide targeted education, offer technical assistance, or initiate enforcement actions if necessary. Additionally, the Department of Environmental Quality may use the data to explore ways to reduce air pollution in the agricultural sector. The bill also amends existing law to allow for civil penalties of up to $10,000 for violations of the new reporting requirements. Every two years, the State Department of Agriculture must provide a comprehensive report to legislative committees about the fertilizer application information and any actions taken as a result of the reports.

Committee Categories

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Sponsors (10)

Last Action

Public Hearing held. (on 02/04/2025)

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