The U.S. District Court for Northern California has overturned a 2020 rule allowing genetically engineered (GE) plants to bypass certain pre-market reviews if the USDA determined the technology posed no environmental risks. The decision reinstates stricter oversight, reversing a 2020 regulation aimed at accelerating biotech innovation by reducing review requirements.

Critics argue the 2020 rule that relied on manufacturers voluntarily requesting exemptions reduced oversight, transparency and public safety. The expedited review process shortened approval times to about 41 days but raised concerns over increased potential trade risks.

Food safety advocates claim that GE crops designed to resist chemicals can indirectly harm nearby farms and biodiversity. In 2021, the Center for Food Safety and other groups sued to reverse the rule. It cited environmental and public health concerns. The USDA’s APHIS is assessing its next steps while confirming prior permits and approvals remain valid.

Read more on the federal court’s ruling on genetically modified crops here.