Pioneer's Herbicide-Proof Corn Petitions for Regulatory Escape

2026-05978 — Bayer CropScience: Determination of Nonregulated Status of MON 95275 Maize (Corn)

The USDA says Bayer’s MON 95275 corn, engineered to fight pesky rootworms, is now free from special government rules starting March 19, 2026. This means farmers can grow it without extra paperwork or delays, helping protect crops and possibly saving money. Everyone from farmers to consumers benefits as this corn gets a green light after careful safety checks.

2026-04922 — Notice of Availability of a Pest Risk Analysis for the Importation of Fresh Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.)) Roots From the Republic of Korea Into the United States

The USDA has finished a study on the risks of bringing fresh sweet potatoes from South Korea into the U.S. mainland. They found that with certain safety steps, these imports won’t spread harmful pests or weeds. People and businesses involved in importing or selling sweet potatoes should check out the study and share their thoughts by May 12, 2026.

2026-04923 — Notice of Request for Revision to and Extension of Approval of an Information Collection; Cooperative State-Federal Brucellosis Eradication Program

The USDA wants to keep and update the paperwork for the Cooperative State-Federal Brucellosis Eradication Program, which helps stop a cattle disease called brucellosis. This affects farmers, vets, and state officials who track and report on the disease. They’re asking for public comments by May 12, 2026, and the changes won’t cost extra but will keep the program running smoothly.

2026-04459 — Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.; Availability of a Request and Plant Pest Risk Similarity Assessment for an Extension of Determination of Nonregulated Status for Maize (Corn) Genetically Engineered for Insect Resistance and Herbicide Tolerance

Pioneer Hi-Bred wants to extend the nonregulated status of their genetically engineered corn, DP51291, which is designed to resist certain bugs and tolerate a specific herbicide—just like their earlier corn, DP23211. The USDA is sharing their safety review and asking the public to comment by April 6, 2026. This means farmers could soon have more pest-resistant, herbicide-friendly corn options without extra regulations.

2026-04316 — Addition of Sri Lanka to the List of Regions Affected by African Swine Fever

Sri Lanka has been officially added to the list of places affected by African Swine Fever (ASF) starting December 4, 2024. This means the U.S. will tighten rules on importing pork and pork products from Sri Lanka to keep our pigs safe and sound. Farmers, importers, and pork lovers should watch for these changes to avoid any surprises or delays.

2026-04206 — Notice of Proposed Revision to Requirements for the Importation of Pineapples From Taiwan Into the United States

The USDA is thinking about letting all kinds of fresh pineapples from Taiwan be imported anywhere in the U.S., not just certain types or places like Guam. This change could open up new pineapple options for stores and customers across the country. People have until May 4, 2026, to share their thoughts before any final decisions are made.

Previous: 2026-03149 — Alaska Native Claims Selection

The Bureau of Land Management is officially approving the transfer of about 1,085 acres of land near Flat, Alaska, to Doyon, Limited, an Alaska Native corporation. This decision lets Doyon own both the surface and underground rights to these lands, with some public access rules still in place. If anyone thinks they have a claim on this land, they have a limited time to appeal the decision.

Next: 2026-03152 — Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.: Availability of a Petition for a Determination of Nonregulated Status and Draft Plant Pest Risk Assessment for Insect Resistant and Herbicide-Tolerant DAS-01131-3 Maize (Corn)

Pioneer Hi-Bred International wants the USDA to say their new genetically engineered corn, which fights certain bugs and tolerates a popular weed killer, is safe and doesn’t need special rules. The USDA is sharing the petition and a safety check for everyone to review and comment on before April 20, 2026. This could speed up growing and selling this corn, helping farmers and possibly saving money on pest control.