HB491: Noxious weeds; amends definition to exclude plants that are commercially significant.

Legislative Summary

Noxious weeds. Amends the definition of "noxious weeds" to exclude plants that are commercially significant, directs the Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services (the Board) to implement a phase out period when a new plant is listed as a noxious weed, directs the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to provide signs to nurseries and retail plant outlets listing invasive plants sold in the Commonwealth, and authorizes the Board to adopt regulations for permits required to move noxious weeds, or a part thereof, into or within the Commonwealth. The bill also directs the Department of Conservation and Recreation to update its invasive species list by January 1, 2024, and every four years thereafter.