USDA Promotes Innovation with Updated Plant Breeding Regulation

The USDA announced changes to its biotechnology regulations SECURE rule. The revised rule will encourage innovation of new plant breeding techniques while safeguarding our food supply.

The following statement may be attributed to American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall:

“We appreciate the USDA and Secretary Perdue for their common-sense approach to encouraging innovation. At a time when agriculture is facing many economic headwinds, the science-based rule provides the opportunity to solve current and future challenges for agricultural production and food security. This final rule will ensure the U.S. remains a leader in biotechnology while providing the safe, healthy and wholesome food supply America’s families deserve.”

Background:

• USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service proposed a change to part 340 in 2017.
• The rules had not been revised since they were originally published in 1987.
• The revised proposed rule was published in June 2019.