HB1742

House Bill 1742 amends existing Arkansas law regarding the certification of agricultural seeds to update administrative terminology and procedures. It replaces references to the 'State Plant Board' with the 'Department of Agriculture' and the 'Plant Industries Division' throughout the relevant code sections to reflect organizational shifts. The bill clarifies the process for assessing costs and fees for inspection, certification, and seed promotion, moving from an advance payment model to an invoicing system for applicants. It maintains the authority to regulate seed standards, investigate purity, and penalize false labeling or misuse of certification marks. Additionally, it ensures that funds for promotion are directed toward the Arkansas Seed Dealers' Association and the Arkansas Seed Growers Association. The bill also retains requirements for oversight by legislative agriculture committees and authorizes state cooperation with other governmental agencies.