H.R. 4014

119th CONGRESS 1st Session

To amend title 18, United States Code, to establish criminal penalties for the reckless importation or handling of dangerous agricultural pathogens.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES · June 13, 2025 · Sponsor: Mr. Nunn of Iowa · Committee: Committee on the Judiciary

Table of contents

• H.R. 4014
  • SEC. 1. Short title
  • SEC. 2. Reckless importation of dangerous agricultural pathogens

SEC. 1. Short title

• This Act may be cited as the Preventing Lethal Agricultural and National Threats (PLANT) Act.

SEC. 2. Reckless importation of dangerous agricultural pathogens

• Title 18 U.S.C. is amended by inserting after section 175b the following:
  • (a) Offense
    • Whoever knowingly or recklessly imports a biological agent, toxin, or organism—
      • without the required permit or authorization from the U.S. Department of Agriculture or other appropriate agency; and
      • where such agent, toxin, or organism is designated by regulation as a high-risk agricultural pathogen capable of causing significant harm to U.S. crops, livestock, or agricultural ecosystems,
    • Shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than 10 years, or both.
  • (b) Aggravating factors
    • If the offense:
      • involves concealment of origin;
      • is committed by a person acting on behalf of, or funded by, a foreign government; or
      • results in actual economic damage exceeding $1,000,000;
    • Then the term of imprisonment may be up to 20 years.
  • (c) Definitions
    • In this section:
      • the term means the person consciously disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk that the pathogen could cause significant harm. recklessly
      • the term shall be defined by the Secretary of Agriculture and published via regulation. high-risk agricultural pathogen