Missouri, like Arkansas, wrestled with dicamba problems last summer, including the reported loss of 30,000 peach trees owned by a farmer in that state's boot heel and damage to thousands of acres of other crops.
So far, Missouri lawmakers have passed one of three bills related to illegal spraying of dicamba.
House Bill 662 increased the previous maximum fine of $1,000 to as much as $10,000 for each violation. A fine of up to $25,000 would be levied for repeat offenders, defined as those with violations in two consecutive years or two violations within three years. Farmers also could be liable for the state's cost in investigating the case. Fines of up to $5,000 would be levied against anyone who refuses to submit records or books during an investigation.
Fines collected will go to the school district in which the violations occurred.
The bill has gone to the governor.
Two related bills, also by Rep. Don Rone, a Republican from Portageville, near the Arkansas line, have gained little traction since their filing in January.
One prohibits the sale of herbicide-resistant seed if the corresponding herbicide hasn't yet been approved. Monsanto is based just outside St. Louis and began marketing its new dicamba-tolerant seeds before gaining regulatory approval from the federal Environmental Protection Agency.
The Missouri peach farmer has sued Monsanto for damages in state court but is seeking class-action status. Monsanto recently had that lawsuit transferred to federal court, but the farmer's attorneys have appealed that decision, saying it is a case best determined by local citizens.
SundayMonday Business on 04/02/2017