MD SB613

Department of Agriculture must issue an eradication order to landowners when Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) is found on their property during inspection

Landowners must eradicate Palmer amaranth within 2 weeks of receiving the order

Department must conduct follow-up inspections every 2 weeks until the Palmer amaranth is confirmed eradicated

Administrative penalties for violating an eradication order: $500 (first violation), $1,000 (second violation), $2,000 (third or subsequent violation)

Effective date: October 1, 2026