AB 1912 Summary

• Establishes the California Apiary Research Commission to conduct research and education programs for honeybees and the beekeeping industry, with six producer members and one public member appointed by the Secretary of Food and Agriculture.

• Authorizes the commission to levy an annual assessment not exceeding $1 per colony on producers operating more than 50 colonies in California to fund operations and research activities.

• Requires a referendum vote by eligible beekeepers before the chapter becomes operative, with approval requiring either 65% of voters plus a majority of colonies, or 50% of voters plus 65% of colonies.

• Provides penalties up to $1,000 for willfully rendering false reports, failing to provide required records, affecting shipment of products to avoid assessments, or destroying records.

• Includes a five-year continuation review process where the Secretary must hold public hearings to determine whether the commission should continue operating, with suspension possible through referendum if 30% of producers participate and approve suspension.