USDA Seeks Public Input on Future Regulation of Genetically Engineered Organisms
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking public input on the future regulation of genetically engineered (GE) organisms under the Plant Protection Act. This follows a court decision vacating USDA's 2020 SECURE rule, which had modernized biotechnology regulations. The USDA is exploring a more risk-proportionate regulatory approach and is considering whether modified organisms could be regulated under existing frameworks for conventional plant pests. The RFI also addresses the regulation of emerging agricultural technologies, including microbial products and biotechnology-enabled products, and seeks feedback on field trial oversight and commercialization barriers. 
