The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is considering updating its biotechnology regulations for genetically engineered crops in response to advances in generic engineering and a better understanding of the plant pest risk posed by them. The latest update proposal would exempt certain traits from regulation and allow companies to make self-determinations about their regulatory status. APHIS proposed changes to its regulations in 2008 and 2017 but subsequently withdrew them in response to public comments.