Preventing Lethal Agricultural Threats

Summary#

This bill would add a new federal crime for knowingly or recklessly importing a biological agent, toxin, or organism that (1) lacks a required permit or authorization from the U.S. Department of Agriculture or another appropriate agency and (2) is designated by regulation as a high-risk agricultural pathogen able to harm crops, livestock, or agricultural ecosystems. Conviction could bring a fine, up to 10 years in prison, or both. Penalties can increase to up to 20 years if the offense includes concealment of origin, is done on behalf of or funded by a foreign government, or causes more than $1,000,000 in actual economic damage. The bill defines “recklessly” as consciously disregarding a substantial and unjustifiable risk. The Secretary of Agriculture would define which agents are “high-risk” through regulations. The measure was introduced June 13, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

What it means for you#

• People who import biological agents, toxins, or organisms must have any required USDA or other agency permits for items later labeled as high-risk agricultural pathogens.
• Anyone who knowingly or recklessly imports such a designated agent without authorization could face criminal charges, fines, and prison time (up to 10 years, or up to 20 years in certain cases).
• The exact list of covered agents is not in the bill; the Secretary of Agriculture will set that list by regulation, so the rulemaking will determine which agents are affected.
• The bill is at an early stage and has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee.

Expenses#

No publicly available information on expected costs, budgetary effects, or enforcement costs is included in the bill text or provided metadata.

Proponents' View#

No publicly available information.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.