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HB 446

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 3 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO AGRICULTURE AND STATE FORESTRY.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Bill Carson and 4 co-sponsors

Delaware HB 446 would update and modernize state laws governing agriculture and forestry, potentially changing licenses, programs, enforcement, and incentives.

Passed By Senate. Votes: 21 YES
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Bill Summary · HB 446

Overview

HB 446 (Session 153, Delaware) seeks to amend Title 3 of the Delaware Code related to agriculture and state forestry. The bill was introduced on May 21, 2026 and assigned to the Agriculture Committee in the House. Primary sponsors include co-sponsors Dave Wilson, Bill Carson, and Ray Seigfried.

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill aims to modify existing Delaware law governing agricultural and forestry matters. While the exact textual changes are not provided here, the bill’s title indicates a focus on agriculture and state forestry, suggesting updates to regulatory, administrative, or programmatic provisions in these areas.

Key Provisions and Changes (as typically contemplated by this type of measure)

Note: The following outlines reflect common elements in amendments to Title 3 related to agriculture and forestry. The precise provisions would be stated in the bill’s text; this section highlights the types of changes typically expected and what readers should verify in the final version.

  • Regulatory Updates: Potential revisions to definitions, licensing, permits, or compliance requirements for agricultural operations or forestry activities.
  • State Forestry Programs: Possible enhancements or reorganizations of state forestry administration, protections, or reforestation/afforestation initiatives.
  • Industry Standards: Updates to standards for agricultural practices, pesticide use, crop management, or timber harvesting to align with current best practices or environmental goals.
  • Enforcement and Penalties: Adjustments to enforcement mechanisms, penalties, penalties schedules, or appeal procedures related to agricultural or forestry violations.
  • Local Government/Agency Coordination: Provisions clarifying roles and collaboration between state agencies and local governments in agriculture and forestry matters.
  • Economic or Incentive Measures: Possible creation or modification of incentives, grants, or assistance programs for farmers and foresters (e.g., cost-sharing, rebates, or technical assistance).

Affected Parties and Stakeholders

  • Agricultural producers, farmers, and agribusinesses operating within Delaware.
  • Forestry professionals, landowners with forested lands, and entities involved in state forestry programs.
  • State and local government agencies responsible for agriculture, forestry, environmental protection, and land management.
  • Organizations involved in environmental stewardship, conservation, and rural economic development.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Introduction and Assignment: The bill was introduced on May 21, 2026 and assigned to the Agriculture Committee in the House, signaling initial Committee review and potential amendments.
  • Committee Process: As the bill progresses, the Agriculture Committee would typically hold hearings, accept testimony from stakeholders, and propose amendments before reporting the bill to the full House.
  • Floor Action: If reported out of committee, the bill would move to the House floor for debate, potential further amendments, and a vote.
  • Effective Date: The bill would specify an effective date (often a set date or upon passage) for any enacted provisions.

Potential Impacts

  • Regulatory Modernization: Could streamline or update regulatory processes to reflect modern agricultural and forestry practices.
  • Environmental and Resource Management: May enhance state oversight, conservation efforts, or sustainable management of agricultural and forest resources.
  • Economic Implications: Depending on provisions, could influence compliance costs for producers or create incentives for forestry and agricultural investments.

Note

  • For a precise understanding of the bill’s substantive changes, reading the full text of HB 446 is necessary. The above summarizes the likely areas of impact based on the bill’s title and sponsor activity.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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