MO HB1015

Establishes mandatory dispute resolution process for intellectual property disputes involving unauthorized use of alien seeds or plants found on a farmer's land before court action may be filed.

Dispute resolution panel must consist of farmers and business representatives with expertise in the relevant crop type from the affected area, with no affiliations to either party.

Accusing party bears burden of proving by preponderance of evidence that the farmer knowingly planted alien crops mixed with their usual crop seed or plant type.

If the dispute panel finds insufficient evidence, the farmer and company may file a countersuit against the accusing party for damages including lost time, loss of reputation, and crop yield reduction.

Court may not hear intellectual property cases under this section without dispute panel findings filed with the petition; the losing party must pay reasonable portions of the other party's dispute-related fees and expenses without causing financial hardship.