75603. (a) In order to prevent the use of prohibited substances in organic apple production and processing that would undermine consumer confidence in the apples purchased and consumed, the commission may establish an organic apple certification program applicable to persons engaged in domestic organic production or processing of apples and to persons engaged in importing apples to determine whether they are in compliance with state and federal laws.
(b) The program’s operating procedures shall be subject to approval by the secretary.
(c) The identity of any person determined to be in violation of the program shall be provided to the public, the department, and any other state and federal agency responsible for the administration of laws related to organic products.
(d) The commission shall reimburse the secretary for all expenditures incurred by the secretary in carrying out its duties and responsibilities pursuant to this section.
(Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 224, Sec. 2. (SB 982) Effective January 1, 2023.)