SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6249

BYSenator Halsan

Prohibiting the use of certain fertilizers containing certain radioactive or toxic materials.

Senate Committee on Agriculture

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 28, 1988

Senate Staff:John Stuhlmiller (786-7446)

AS OF JANUARY 22, 1988

BACKGROUND:

Concern has been raised over the potential use of radioactive materials and heavy metals in agricultural fertilizers.

The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the Oklahoma State Department of Agriculture have been watching tests which have been conducted over the last ten years by the Kerr- McGee Corporation.  These tests have been using a mixture called raffinate, which contains radioactive uranium, radium and thorium in minute levels, toxic solvents and at least 18 heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, mercury, molybdenum, nickel, cobalt and cadmium.

The current concern is that the United States Food and Drug Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the United States Department of Agriculture have not been involved in monitoring these tests.

SUMMARY:

The Director of the State Department of Agriculture shall prohibit the use of any product as an agricultural fertilizer which contains raffinate or similar material which contains any of the following: radioactive uranium, radium, or thorium; toxic solvents; or toxic heavy metals.  Any violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested