Parliament has approved amendments to the Agricultural Produce Act, which allows for the imposition of harsher penalties for praedial larceny.

Under the act, praedial larceny charges moved from a maximum of $250,000 or 3 months in prison, to $3 million or 3 years in prison.

Agriculture Minister Floyd Green says the amendments will ensure greater protection for farmers.

Mr. Green notes that tougher laws will help curb the transport and trade of stolen farm produce.