By law, public notice of proposed rules must be given by publication in newspapers of record. The purpose of these notices is to give the public a chance to respond to the proposals. The public notices for administrative rules are now also available online at https://secure.vermont.gov/SOS/rules/ . The law requires an agency to hold a public hearing on a proposed rule, if requested to do so in writing by 25 persons or an association having at least 25 members.

To make special arrangements for individuals with disabilities or special needs please call or write the contact person listed below as soon as possible.

To obtain further information concerning any scheduled hearing(s), obtain copies of proposed rule(s) or submit comments regarding proposed rule(s), please call or write the contact person listed below. You may also submit comments in writing to the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules, State House, Montpelier, Vermont 05602 (802-828-2231).

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Quarantine #3 – Regulated Introduced Plant Species.

Vermont Proposed Rule: 26P007

AGENCY: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets

CONCISE SUMMARY: This amendment modernizes the existing Noxious Weed Quarantine, which will be renamed the Regulated Introduced Plant Species Quarantine, by establishing a clearer, science-based, and more flexible process for identifying and regulating introduced plant species of concern in Vermont. The amended rule removes the previous static list and replaces it with a responsive, flexible, and meaningful framework grounded in Pest Risk Assessment (PRA) criteria and review by an advisory group of subject-matter and industry experts. The amendment clarifies prohibited activities, updates definitions, adds best management practices (BMPs) and permitting pathways, and strengthens consistency with federal regulations by incorporating federally regulated plant species under 7 CFR § 360.200. The revised structure improves transparency, regulatory clarity, and enforceability, while supporting prevention-focused management that aligns with Vermont’s ecological, agricultural, and forestry needs.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Emilie Inoue, Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, 116 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-2901 Tel: 802-505-0217 E-mail: Emilie.Inoue@vermont.gov URL: https://agriculture.vermont.gov/.

FOR COPIES: Stephanie Smith, Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, 116 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-2901 Tel: 802-661-8051 E-mail: Stephanie.Smith@vermont.gov