Revisions to the Federal Seed Act Regulations

This final rule revises the regulations that implement the Federal Seed Act (FSA). Revisions are made to seed labeling, testing, and certification requirements. The revisions add certain seed species to the lists of covered kinds of seed and update the lists to reflect current scientific nomenclature; update regulations related to seed quality, germination and purity standards, and acceptable seed testing methods; and update seed certification and recertification requirements, including new eligibility standards and the recognition of current breeding techniques. This rule aligns FSA regulations with current industry practices, harmonizes FSA testing methods with industry standards, and clarifies confusing or contradictory language in the existing regulations. The revisions are expected to reduce trade burden associated with interstate seed commerce and encourage compliance with State and Federal laws.