DNR Letterhead

March 25, 2003

1. Bill Number and Sponsor:

Senate Bill 228

Senator Sanborn, et al.

2. Purpose:

This bill amends 1988 PA 466 by adding a definition of Genetically Engineered Organisms (GEOs) and Recombinant Nucleic Acid techniques. The bill also bans the importation of GEOs unless specific permission is granted from the Director of the Department of Agriculture.

3. How Does This Legislation Impact Current Programs in the Department:

Many nonnative aquatic organisms, including GEOs, pose serious risks to native aquatic species and environments. By restricting their importation into the State, future introductions and biological catastrophes can be prevented.

4. Introduced at Agency Request?

No.

5. Agency Support?

Yes.

6. Arguments Against the Bill:

Certain aquatic organisms considered harmful and/or unwanted in Michigan are legally reared in other states and countries. As part of the aquaculture and aquarium trade, they represent a commodity to be bought, sold and transported. Whether for food, cultural practices, or biological control, multiple values are associated with these species.

7. Arguments For the Bill:

As part of a package of bills, this legislation assures that unwanted aquatic organisms will not be imported into the State, except under permit. Nonnative (and/or GEOs) species disrupt native ecosystems, present difficult challenges for natural resource managers, and can out-compete, displace or even exterminate native species, putting at risk a $1.5 billion/year sport fishing industry. Additionally, once a new aquatic nuisance species or variant species is established, it can be extremely expensive to control and oftentimes impossible to eradicate.

8. State Revenue/Budgetary Implications:

None.

9. Implications to Local Units of Government:

None.

10. Administrative Rules Implications:

None.

11. Other Pertinent Information:

The bill mandates that an order of the Director of the Department of Agriculture is required prior to importing a GEO.

12. User Groups/Customers that Support this Legislation (if known):

Michigan United Conservation Clubs, Michigan Environmental Council Trout Unlimited, Michigan Bass Federation, Michigan Steelhead and Salmon Fishermen’s Association, Federation of Fly Fishers, and others.

K. L. COOL

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES