United States Representatives Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and Jim Baird (IN-04) have reintroduced the Plant Biostimulant Act. This legislation would create a uniform federal definition for plant biostimulants, establish a consistent regulatory pathway to market, and promote additional research into the benefits of biostimulant products on soil health and crop production.

Currently in the U.S., there is no clear or consistent federal framework to govern the use and approval of plant biostimulants. The updated legislation would address this gap through federal guidance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Roger Marshall (R-KS).

“The lack of a standard regulatory definition or pathway to market for plant biostimulants makes it harder for producers to access this sustainable and effective technology,” said Rep. Panetta. “By reintroducing this bipartisan bill, we’re pushing for the clarity and federal coordination needed to encourage the adoption of biostimulants. Increasing access to these products helps our farmers improve crop yields, protect our environment, and maintain U.S. leadership in sustainable agriculture.”

Rep. Baird noted that biostimulants have potential benefits for producers and their sustainability footprint. “Defining these products and creating a consistent process is an important step in giving farmers better access to plant biostimulants and other new technologies to ensure our agriculture sector can thrive.”

The Plant Biostimulant Act would amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) to define plant biostimulants; direct the EPA to revise the Code of Federal Regulations to reflect the new definition; and require the USDA to study the contributions of plant biostimulants to soil health and sustainability.

The Plant Biostimulant Act is endorsed by; Agriculture Retailers Association (ARA), American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), Biological Products Industry Alliance (BPIA), Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), Council of Producers and Distributors of Agrotechnology (CPDA), CropLife America (CLA), The Fertilizer Institute Biostimulant Council, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), Humic Products Trade Association (HPTA), International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment), Southern Crop Production Association (SCPA), and Western Growers.