CT SB01000

Repeals and replaces Section 22-54r of the general statutes, effective July 1, 2019, establishing new rules for apple producer assessments to the Commissioner of Agriculture.

Requires each apple producer to pay an assessment of at least $100, with assessments exceeding 6 cents per first sale unit requiring referendum approval.

Exempts the initial 1,000 first sale units of any apple producer each market season from assessment.

Allows producers to submit returns annually on November 15 or quarterly on November 15, February 15, May 15, and August 15, with amounts based on apples sold or whichever is greater.

Imposes civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day for producers failing to pay required assessments after receiving notice.

Deposits collected funds in qualified public depositories and restricts their use to expenses for administering the apple market order budget.