Statement on Unanimous Passage of HB 1318 by the North Dakota House of Representatives

January 24, 2025
Contact: contact@modernagalliance.org

St. Louis, MO — Today, in an 88-0 bipartisan vote, the North Dakota House of Representatives approved HB 1318—legislation that ensures farmers' continued access to essential crop protection tools.

"House Bill 1318 protects farmers from a confusing patchwork of differing state regulations and stands behind the strong, science-based processes already in place today," said Modern Ag Alliance Executive Director Elizabeth Burns-Thompson, who testified in support of the legislation before the House Agriculture Committee on Thursday. “The overwhelming bipartisan vote sends a clear message—policymakers must protect North Dakota farmers’ access to the tools they need to stay competitive and feed us all.” 

HB 1318 ensures that federally approved pesticide labels remain the standard, providing uniformity across states and safeguarding farmers from the costly consequences of regulatory uncertainty. 

Crop protection tools help farmers control invasive weeds, keep yields high and costs low, and implement conservation practices. As the leading U.S. producer of wheat, North Dakota relies heavily on the most commonly used herbicide: over half of all wheat acres, 80% of corn acres, and 92% of soybean acres depend on it to control invasive weeds, reduce costs, and ensure food security. 

“The Modern Ag Alliance commends the leadership of Rep. Jared Hagert (District 20), Rep. Daniel Vollmer (District 6), and the entire House for standing with North Dakota farmers,” added Burns-Thompson. “We look forward to working with the North Dakota Senate over the coming weeks to get this common-sense legislation to the governor’s desk.” 

About The Modern Ag Alliance

The Modern Ag Alliance is a diverse coalition of agricultural stakeholders advocating for U.S. farmers’ access to the crop protection tools they need to ensure we have a robust and affordable domestic food supply. To learn more, visit modernagalliance.org.