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Division of Agriculture
The Director of the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) proposes the amendments to RULES RELATED TO CULTURAL PRACTICES FOR BRANDING PRODUCTS OF THE FARM and gives notice of intent to hold a public hearing to receive public comment on the proposed regulations and to afford interested parties an opportunity to submit data, views, or arguments orally and/or in writing on the proposed regulations. The public hearing will be held on March 6th, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. in Room 300 of the Foundry Building, 235 Promenade St., Providence, RI. The hearing room is accessible to the handicapped. A stenographic record of the hearing will be made. The DEM will provide interpreter services for the hearing impaired, provided such a request is made at least 48 hours prior to the hearing date. A request for interpreter service and for TDD can be made in writing or by calling 711.NOTICE OF PROPOSED REGULATIONS & PUBLIC HEARING The proposed amendments will update references to incorporated federal organic regulations; amend the definition of the RI NOFA member of the DEM Organic Advisory Board (OAB), add the option for the Director to request from the OAB an annual recommendation on organic certification fees; increase organic producer and handler certification fees to cover accreditation costs, allowing fees to be reduced on an annual basis according to costs; and institute an inspection deadline of September 1 for initial and annual inspection of organic farms. Copies of the proposed regulations in either clear text or with additions and deletions marked can be obtained at the Division or by calling 401-222-2781 weekdays from 8:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. or by writing to: Department of Environmental Management Division of Agriculture 235 Promenade Street Providence, RI 02908-5767 DEM has complied with the requirements of R.I. Gen. Laws Section 42-35-3 by considering alternative approaches to the proposed regulations and has determined that there is no alternative approach that would be as effective and less burdensome. DEM has also determined that the proposed regulations do not overlap or duplicate any other state regulation. DEM has complied with the requirements of R.I. Gen. Laws Section 42-35-3.3 by submitting copies of the proposed regulations to the Governor's Office and the Economic Development Corporation (EDC). DEM encourages the submission of written comments. Written comments may be submitted by mail prior to the date of the public hearing at the address indicated above, or by hand-delivery during the public hearing. Signed this 4th day of February, 2008. Ken Ayars, Chief Division of Agriculture |
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rev. 10/18/04