California AB230 establishes a program to combat Pierce’s disease in wine grapes.

California AB230 amends the Food and Agricultural Code to create the Pierce’s Disease Control Program within the Department of Food and Agriculture. The bill establishes a statewide coordinator and a Pierce’s Disease Management Account to fund efforts against Pierce’s disease and its vectors. It also creates the Winegrape Pest and Disease Prevention Board to oversee these efforts. The bill mandates public hearings to determine if the program should continue, with a referendum process if substantial opposition exists. The program will become inoperative if not supported by a majority vote.

California AB230 establishes a program to combat Pierce’s disease in wine grapes.

California AB230 amends the Food and Agricultural Code to create the Pierce’s Disease Control Program within the Department of Food and Agriculture. The bill establishes a statewide coordinator and a Pierce’s Disease Management Account to fund efforts against Pierce’s disease and its vectors. It also creates the Winegrape Pest and Disease Prevention Board to oversee these efforts. The bill mandates public hearings to determine if the program should continue, with a referendum process if substantial opposition exists. The program will become inoperative if not supported by a majority vote.