Bill > SB988

This bill amends Pennsylvania's crop insurance regulations by adding two new definitions and modifying existing provisions for crop insurance financial assistance and funding. The bill defines "cover crop" as a seasonal crop used primarily for erosion control, soil health, and water quality improvement, and clarifies that it is not considered a crop for insurance purposes. It also defines "Risk Management Agency" (RMA) as the agency within the United States Department of Agriculture. The bill expands the state department's ability to provide crop insurance financial assistance by establishing a premium rebate program that offers $5 per acre for cover crop plantings, with specific guidelines for implementation. The department may cooperate with federal and state agencies, develop verification procedures, and conduct investigations related to these rebates. The bill prohibits rebates for acres already receiving funding from other grant programs and requires the department to promulgate regulations. Additionally, the bill authorizes the department to use appropriated funds and seek supplemental funding for the crop insurance premium rebate program, with a stipulation that these funds should not replace existing funding sources. The legislation will take effect 60 days after its enactment.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=988