Preventing Lethal Agricultural and National Threats (PLANT) Act

This bill amends Title 18 of the U.S. Code to create new criminal penalties for the reckless importation of dangerous agricultural pathogens. It targets individuals who knowingly or recklessly import specific biological agents, toxins, or organisms without the necessary permits from the U.S. Department of Agriculture or other appropriate agencies. The offense applies when the imported material is a high-risk agricultural pathogen , defined by regulation as capable of causing significant harm to U.S. crops, livestock, or agricultural ecosystems. Initial penalties include fines or imprisonment for up to 10 years. However, the term of imprisonment can extend to 20 years if aggravating factors are present, such as concealment of origin , involvement by a foreign government , or if the act results in economic damage exceeding $1,000,000 . The bill defines "recklessly" as consciously disregarding a substantial and unjustifiable risk of harm, underscoring its focus on preventing severe agricultural threats.