CA SB1522

Revises the definition of "fertilizing materials" to include commercial fertilizers, agricultural minerals, beneficial substances, and organic input materials, while introducing a new definition for "beneficial substance" that excludes pesticides and primary nutrients.

Eliminates label registration requirements for auxiliary soil and plant substances and packaged soil amendments, while extending registration validity from 2 to up to 4 years and increasing registration fees from a maximum of $200 to $400 per product (or $1,000 for organic input material).

Exempts certain bulk materials (hay, straw, sand, wood products, manures, compost) from registration requirements if distributed solely for physical conditioning purposes without nutrient guarantees.

Authorizes the Secretary of Food and Agriculture to deny licenses or registrations to persons with unpaid fines, fees, assessments, or penalties exceeding 30 days old, and requires the department to establish a written appeals process for contested denials.

Modifies tonnage reporting requirements to be submitted semiannually as specified by regulation and limits late fees to one $200 fee per person with multiple licenses, rather than imposing fees per license.