WASHINGTON--A proposed "Plant Protection Act" being considered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is of concern to environmental watchdog groups across the country. The legislation would allow USDA to attach new interpretations of old rules regarding organic and sustainable agriculture, according to Praxis, a supplier of nontoxic pest controls.

Praxis is concerned that the bill will greatly limit the availability of organic foods and fiber crops, or pesticide-free food and fiber crops, for public consumption. Two proposals, H.R. 1504 and S. 910 will, according to Praxis, allow for greater pesticide use, encourage the adoption of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and limit access to biological control alternatives by implementing the Food Quality Protection Act.

Summaries of the bills are available online at www.thomas.loc.gov. The bills are presently still in committee.