Law No. 8.996 providing for procedures, use and management of native stingless bee breeding within the state of Piauí.

This Law establishes rules for the use, management and conservation of native stingless bees (meliponines) in the State of Piauí. Its main objective is to regulate meliponiculture by defining procedures for the authorisation, establishment and operation of meliponaries, while supporting scientific research, environmental education, biodiversity conservation, cultural activities and the sustainable production and commercialisation of bee products and by-products. The law seeks to promote the responsible use of native bee species within their natural geographic ranges, ensure the protection of wild populations, and provide a legal framework for the sustainable development of the stingless-bee sector. The legislation also aims to strengthen environmental management and conservation by regulating the capture, rescue, transport, breeding and commercialisation of stingless bee colonies. It establishes procedures for obtaining authorisations, classifies commercial and non-commercial meliponaries, and requires the rescue and relocation of colonies affected by vegetation-clearing activities. In addition, the law encourages technical cooperation, supports the regularisation of existing meliponaries, promotes sustainable economic opportunities linked to honey and other bee products, and enhances the conservation of native pollinator species that are essential for biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and agricultural production.