Now it is OK to Share Seeds in CA
On Sept 9, 2016, Governor Jerry Brown recently signed into law the Seed Exchange Democracy Act an amendment to the California Seed Law that promotes food security, urban agriculture, and climate resilience by removing regulatory barriers to non-commercial seed sharing activities, including seed libraries. Assembly Bill 1810, introduced by State Assemblymember Marc Levine, exempts non-commercial, seed-sharing activities from industrial labeling, testing and permitting requirements.
Proponents say the new law will increase access to healthy and nutritious food by fostering stronger local seed systems and encouraging seed saving. Leading the advocacy efforts for this bill was a class of fourth-grade students at Olive Elementary School, in Novato. Students testified to the importance of seed saving and sharing and biodiversity at the Assembly and Senate Agriculture Committees. In addition, as part of its national Save Seed Sharing campaign, Oakland-based Sustainable Economies l.aw Center partnered with dozens of state and local organizations, including California Climate & Agriculture Network, California Guild, Center for Food Safety, and Community Alliance with Family Farmers. The effort was also supported by urban agriculture organizations, seed libraries and individual gardeners across tho state who work to protect and promote healthy, resilient local food systems. However, it may not be legal for farmers to share seeds.
SOURCE
Natural Awakening
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