Indiana Administrative Code Title 340 - COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE

Overview

Title 340 of the Indiana Administrative Code sets forth the rules and regulations under the authority of the Indiana Commissioner of Agriculture. The Commissioner oversees the state’s agricultural policies, programs, and regulatory enforcement to promote agricultural development, protect consumers, ensure food safety, and support the agricultural economy.

Key Areas Covered

1. Commissioner’s Authority and Duties

Defines the powers and responsibilities of the Commissioner of Agriculture.

Includes administration of agricultural laws and coordination with other state agencies.

Establishes rulemaking authority and enforcement procedures.

2. Licensing and Certification

Requirements for licensing individuals and businesses involved in agriculture-related activities.

Includes licenses for pesticide applicators, grain dealers, livestock markets, seed dealers, and others.

Procedures for applying, renewing, suspending, or revoking licenses.

3. Pest and Disease Control

Regulations to prevent and control the spread of plant pests and animal diseases.

Procedures for inspections, quarantines, and eradication efforts.

Guidelines for reporting and handling infestations or outbreaks.

4. Seed and Fertilizer Regulation

Standards for seed quality, labeling, and sales.

Rules governing fertilizer distribution and application.

Enforcement actions for violations related to seed and fertilizer.

5. Weights and Measures

Oversight of weighing and measuring devices used in commerce, such as scales and gas pumps.

Certification and inspection requirements to ensure accuracy.

Penalties for non-compliance or fraudulent practices.

6. Food Safety and Consumer Protection

Standards and inspections for food processing and distribution within the agricultural sector.

Enforcement of laws related to adulterated or misbranded products.

Consumer complaint investigation and resolution.

7. Agricultural Marketing and Promotion

Programs to support marketing of Indiana agricultural products.

Support for farmer’s markets, commodity boards, and agricultural fairs.

Initiatives to promote agricultural education and innovation.

Summary Table

AreaDetails
Commissioner’s AuthorityPowers, duties, enforcement
Licensing & CertificationLicenses for applicators, dealers, markets
Pest & Disease ControlInspections, quarantines, eradication
Seed & FertilizerQuality standards, labeling, enforcement
Weights & MeasuresDevice certification, accuracy inspections
Food Safety & Consumer ProtectionInspection, complaint resolution, product standards
Marketing & PromotionSupport programs, education, product promotion

Importance

Ensures the integrity and safety of Indiana’s agricultural products and practices.

Protects farmers, consumers, and businesses through fair licensing and regulatory oversight.

Supports agricultural innovation, sustainability, and market development.

Maintains compliance with federal and state agricultural laws.

Promotes consumer confidence and agricultural economic growth in Indiana.

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