H.R.4014 - Preventing Lethal Agricultural and National Threats (PLANT) Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 4014, the Preventing Lethal Agricultural and National Threats (PLANT) Act, aims to amend Title 18 of the United States Code to establish criminal penalties for the reckless importation or handling of dangerous agricultural pathogens. The bill introduces Section 175c, which defines offenses related to the reckless importation of biological agents, toxins, or organisms without proper authorization. It also outlines aggravating factors that could increase the term of imprisonment.
Expected Effects
The PLANT Act seeks to enhance biosecurity measures by deterring the reckless importation of agricultural pathogens. This would be achieved by imposing significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment, on individuals or entities that violate the proposed regulations. The law aims to protect U.S. agriculture from potential harm caused by dangerous pathogens.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection of U.S. agriculture from dangerous pathogens.
- Reduced risk of economic damage to crops and livestock.
- Increased national security by preventing intentional or unintentional introduction of harmful biological agents.
- Deterrence of reckless behavior related to importing agricultural pathogens.
- Potential for improved international standing through demonstrated commitment to biosecurity.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased regulatory burden on agricultural research and trade.
- Risk of disproportionate penalties for unintentional violations.
- Possible challenges in defining and identifying 'high-risk agricultural pathogens'.
- Concerns about the scope and application of the term 'recklessly'.
- Potential for increased costs associated with compliance and enforcement.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's implied powers to provide for the general welfare and national defense, as outlined in the Preamble. Congress has the authority to regulate interstate and international commerce, which includes the importation of goods, according to Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 (the Commerce Clause). The establishment of criminal penalties falls under Congress's power to define and punish offenses against the United States.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).