Hybrid seed corn definitions, violations updated

Senators passed a bill April 24 that updates the definition of hybrid seed corn and allows a restraining order or injunction to be imposed on anyone who sells or represents corn seed as a hybrid variety that does not meet identity standards.

Introduced by Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston, LB276 clarifies the definition of hybrid seed corn and the process of cross fertilization as it relates to hybrid seed corn. Hybrid seed corn is limited to seed of the first generation of a cross involving two, three or four different inbred lines of corn or their combinations.

Under the bill, a district court in the county where the violation occurs has jurisdiction to grant a restraining order or a temporary, permanent or mandatory injunction against that person. That is in addition to an existing criminal penalty against such a violation.

The bill requires the director of the state Department of Agriculture — when he or she has reasonable belief that a violation is occurring — to report that belief to the attorney general or the county attorney in which the violation is occurring. The attorney general or county attorney then could pursue legal action.

The bill passed on a 49-0 vote.