SB 6420 - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/15/02)

     Recognizes a public benefit in:  (1) Establishing standards governing the labeling and advertising of food products and agricultural commodities as organically produced;

     (2) Providing certification under the federal organic food production act of 1990, 7 U.S.C. Sec. 6501 et seq., and the rules adopted thereunder for agricultural products marketed and labeled using the term "organic" or a derivative of the term "organic";

     (3) Providing access for Washington producers, processors, and handlers to domestic and international markets for organic food products; and

     (4) Establishing a state organic program under the federal organic food production act of 1990, 7 U.S.C. Sec. 6501 et seq., and the rules adopted thereunder.

     Authorizes the department to take such actions, conduct proceedings, and enter orders as permitted or contemplated for a state organic program under the federal organic food production act of 1990, 7 U.S.C. Sec. 6501 et seq., and the rules adopted thereunder.  The state organic program shall not be inconsistent with the requirements of 7 U.S.C. Sec. 6501 et seq. and the rules adopted thereunder, including 7 C.F.R. Sec. 205.668.  The department shall adopt rules necessary to implement this act.

     Repeals RCW 15.86.031, 15.86.035, 15.86.050, 15.86.080, and 15.86.100.