SB3436 Summary: Illinois Fertilizer Act of 1961 Amendments

• Establishes the Nutrient Research and Education Council (NREC) with 9 voting and 4 non-voting members to conduct nutrient research and education programs, funded by fertilizer tonnage assessments between $0.50 and $3.00 per ton

• Creates a separate fertilizer distributor licensing system ($100 fee, plus $50 per additional site) distinct from product registration; requires entities to obtain licenses before distributing fertilizers in Illinois

• Increases registration fees for fertilizer products from $10 to $20 per grade and inspection fees from $25 to $50 for small packaged fertilizers (5 pounds or less); establishes all fees go to the Fertilizer Control Fund

• Expands Director's authority to refuse, suspend, or cancel registrations and licenses for violations; authorizes Department to issue stop-sale/stop-use orders and pursue injunctions against violators without bond

• Establishes administrative penalties of $1,000 for major violations (non-compliance, stop-sale violations, obstruction) and $500 for violations like misbranding or missing labels; requires penalties not paid within 60 days be submitted to Attorney General for collection