PURPOSE: This rule outlines the criteria that the program will use to determine when to investigate complaints.

1. (1) Any person with knowledge of a violation of the National Organic Program (NOP) 7 CFR, Part 205, may file a complaint with the department.
2. (2) The department shall investigate complaints involving organic entities certified by the program. Complaints involving organic entities not certified by the program will be referred to the NOP administrator.

3. (3) The department, in cooperation with all pertinent state and federal agencies, may investigate certified or non-certified organic entities, whether certified by the program or not, upon determining that a need exists to protect public health and safety or preserve evidence that would justify an immediate investigation.

   1. (A) This rule in no way negates the responsibilities of the certified and non-certified organic entities to meet the statutory mandates of Chapter 196, RSMo.

AUTHORITY: section 261.110, RSMo Supp. 2002.* Original rule filed Jan. 3, 2003, effective Aug. 30, 2003. *Original authority: 261.110, RSMo 2000, amended 2002.