CA AB1620

Establishes the Broomrape Control Board within the Department of Food and Agriculture to advise the Secretary on matters related to Broomrape, an invasive weed threatening California's tomato industry and other crops.

Board shall consist of at least 12 members with at least 3 representatives from each of 4 geographical districts, recommended by the tomato industry and approved by the Secretary; Secretary may also appoint a public member and nonvoting ex officio members.

Board shall recommend actions including conducting Broomrape research, surveying and treating infestations, establishing annual assessment rates paid equally by producers and handlers, and adopting related regulations.

Assessments collected from producers shall be paid by handlers to the Secretary; failure to pay results in a 10 percent penalty plus 1.5 percent monthly interest on unpaid balances.

Chapter becomes inoperative on December 31, 2027, unless extended by later statute; remaining funds shall be refunded pro rata to assessed persons or used for Broomrape control activities if refund amounts are minimal or payees cannot be located.