What are the laws governing the use of genetically modified seeds in farming?

In Virginia, the laws governing the use of genetically modified (GM) seeds in farming are derived from both national and state regulations. The use of GM seeds is regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS). Under USDA regulations, all GM agricultural products and seed must be approved before they can be sold or used. The approval process involves a review of the potential risks of the modified product to the environment and human health. After a product has been approved, the USDA will issue permits to individuals and commercial farmers that wish to use the GM seed. At the state level, Virginia has adopted the Biotechnology Regulatory Act, which establishes a rigorous review process for GM products and seed used for agricultural purposes. This process includes environmental, legal, and economic evaluations of proposed GM products and seed. Once a GM product has been approved, farmers must comply with any additional restrictions that may be in place. For example, the VDACS may require farmers to take certain steps to prevent the spread of GM seed, to ensure that any potential harm to the environment is minimized. In addition, the VDACS keeps a database of all GM products and seed used in Virginia. This information is used to ensure compliance with the applicable laws and regulations governing the use of GM seed.

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What are the laws governing the use of genetically modified seeds in farming?

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