CA AB1871

Creates criminal penalties (up to 6 months jail and/or $2,500 fine) for false, deceptive, or misleading statements about agricultural products' origin, producer identity, or production methods, with civil penalties of $500-$5,000 as alternative enforcement.

Establishes Direct Agricultural Marketing Penalty Account in Department of Food and Agriculture Fund to receive civil penalties collected by the secretary for investigations and enforcement of false agricultural marketing claims.

Redefines certified farmers' markets as registered California agricultural product point-of-sale locations where only producers or their authorized representatives may sell; requires conspicuous signage stating farm name, county location, and phrases like "We Grew What We Are Selling."

Requires farmers' market operators to annually register with county agricultural commissioners and pay $2 per vendor per market day (or $1 for certain small county markets) to the state; establishes minimum biannual inspections of certified farmers' markets.

Reduces Certified Farmers' Market Advisory Committee from 17 to 14 members serving 2-year terms or at the secretary's pleasure, and revises committee's primary goals to focus on promoting direct producer sales and honest marketing practices.