North Columbus News

The Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Bill 364, legislation that exempts certain non-commercial seed-sharing activities from laws governing seed labeling, inspection, and advertising. The bill is sponsored by State Representatives Dave Dobos (R-Columbus) and Roy Klopfenstein (R-Haviland).

House Bill 364 specifically exempts any non-commercial seed sharing aimed at conserving plants necessary for the sustainment and growth of threatened or endangered species. It also covers non-commercial seed sharing intended to conserve or create native plants.

“The idea for this bill was brought to us by one of my constituents, David Donofrio, who serves as the Vice President of the Ohio Prairie Association,” said Dobos. “Some of the organization’s members wanted to share seeds of milkweed plants to help our dwindling monarch butterfly population, but current law prohibits it.”

Over the past two decades, the Monarch butterfly population has declined by nearly 90%. These butterflies are known for their migration starting in Mexico and coming to Ohio, where they lay their eggs exclusively on milkweed. Milkweed then serves as their only source of food before they travel back.

“House Bill 364 will fix an unintended consequence caused by restrictions on seed sharing,” said Klopfenstein. “By allowing certain seed sharing, we will help boost conservation efforts around the state.”

House Bill 364 now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.