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SB 1249

RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 5 co-sponsors

SB 1249 boosts protections for farmers by establishing a pilot program to combat agricultural theft, enhancing inspections, and increasing penalties for offenders.

Act 235, 06/27/2025 (Gov. Msg. No. 1337).
#agriculturalcrimes #agriculturalenforcementpilotprogram #appropriations($) #branding #dle #departmentofagriculture #inspection #penalties #positions #theftofanagriculturalproductorcommodity
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Bill Summary · SB 1249

Summary of SB 1249: Relating to Agriculture

Bill Number: SB 1249
Status: Act 235, enacted on June 27, 2025
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Subject Areas: Agricultural Crimes, Agricultural Enforcement Pilot Program, Appropriations, Branding, Department of Agriculture, Inspection, Penalties, Theft of Agricultural Products

Purpose and Intent

SB 1249 aims to enhance the enforcement of agricultural laws and combat agricultural crimes, particularly the theft of agricultural products and commodities. The bill establishes an Agricultural Enforcement Pilot Program to improve inspection and enforcement capabilities within the Department of Agriculture (DLE). This initiative is designed to protect farmers and agricultural producers from theft and related crimes, thereby supporting the agricultural economy.

Key Provisions

  1. Establishment of Agricultural Enforcement Pilot Program:

    • The bill creates a pilot program within the Department of Agriculture to focus on the enforcement of laws related to agricultural crimes.
    • The program will include enhanced inspection protocols and increased penalties for violations related to agricultural theft.

  2. Appropriations:

    • The bill allocates funding to support the implementation of the pilot program, although specific dollar amounts are not detailed in the summary.

  3. Branding and Inspection:

    • The legislation emphasizes the importance of branding agricultural products to deter theft and facilitate easier identification of stolen goods.
    • It mandates regular inspections of agricultural operations to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.

  4. Penalties for Agricultural Crimes:

    • The bill introduces stricter penalties for individuals found guilty of stealing agricultural products or commodities, aiming to deter such crimes effectively.

Affected Parties

  • Farmers and Agricultural Producers: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are farmers and producers who will receive better protection against theft and related crimes.
  • Department of Agriculture: The DLE will be responsible for implementing the pilot program and enforcing the new regulations.
  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Local law enforcement may collaborate with the Department of Agriculture to address agricultural crimes.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Journey:

    • SB 1249 was introduced on January 21, 2025, and underwent multiple readings and amendments before being passed.
    • The bill was passed by the House and Senate, with amendments made during the legislative process.
    • It received final approval and was signed into law on June 27, 2025.

  • Related Legislation:

    • A companion bill, HB 859, is associated with SB 1249, indicating a broader legislative effort to address agricultural issues.

Conclusion

SB 1249 represents a significant step towards strengthening the enforcement of agricultural laws and protecting the agricultural sector from theft and related crimes. By establishing a dedicated pilot program and enhancing penalties, the bill seeks to create a safer environment for agricultural producers, ultimately benefiting the state's economy.

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

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