The legislation recognizes this explicitly by defining biological control organisms as beneficial agents and ensuring that any regulatory actions are science and risk-based. Another way we can help industry is through partnerships. These industry-driven programs have enhanced the marketability of poultry products by addressing both health and product quality issues. It has been a unique and productive partnership between industry and government, and the effort merits expansion to other industries. The Plant Protection Act would provide similar authority for industry-driven quality assurance programs for plants, plant products, and biological control organisms to improve their marketability.
Regulatory uniformity is also important to maintaining marketability and commerce.
The benefits to commerce derived from having uniform application of quarantine requirements is difficult to contest. No producer or shipper can afford to meet the varying requirements of 49 other States. When Federal officials take an action, it should be based in sound science and be the least drastic measure necessary to address the problem. Federal preemption regarding matters in foreign commerce sends a positive signal to international trading partners and helps ensure compliance with international trading obligations. If there is a serious problem, preemption ensures a solid, consistent Federal response that protects production and commerce.