HB 3235

Abstract

Amends the Sustainable Agriculture Act. Provides that, on or before January 1, 2024, the Department of Agriculture shall establish and implement a 3-year compost reimbursement pilot program to reimburse farming operations in this State for purchasing and using compost products, including transportation, equipment, spreading, and labor costs. Provides that the Department of Agriculture shall create an online form for eligible farming operations to apply for cost reimbursement. Provides that a farming operation may submit only one application for purchases made and usage costs incurred during any given fiscal year. Provides that applications for reimbursement must be filed: (1) on or before September 1, 2024, for compost purchased and usage costs incurred in Fiscal Year 2024; (2) on or before September 1, 2025, for compost purchased and usage costs incurred in Fiscal Year 2025; and (3) on or before September 1, 2026, for compost purchased and usage costs incurred in Fiscal Year 2026. Provides that a farming operation may not receive: (1) more than 50% of the costs it has incurred for the purchase and use of compost products, including transportation, equipment, spreading, and labor costs; (2) more than $50,000 per year; and (3) reimbursement for compost products that it has transferred, or intends to transfer, to another individual or entity, whether or not for compensation. Provides that the provision is repealed on January 1, 2027. Effective immediately.