Maryland Department of Agriculture

The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is responsible for a number of laws and regulations relating to environmental and consumer protection as well as the promotion of agriculture. Maryland State laws that apply to MDA can be found in the Agriculture Article. Throughout its history, MDA has worked to ensure compliance with agricultural laws and regulations and to initiate enforcement action when warranted. Enforcement is one of the tools that the department uses - usually following education, technical and financial assistance if appropriate - to carry out its mission to assure consumer confidence, protect the environment and promote agriculture. Agricultural laws and regulations are established to protect and foster a healthy and sustainable future for agriculture while protecting and preserving the environment. The department's enforcement options may include: fines and penalties; administrative actions, which are heard before the Office of Administrative Hearings; and judicial actions, which are civil or criminal proceedings heard in court. Administrative and civil actions can result in orders and/or penalties. Criminal proceedings can result in fines and/or imprisonment.