(1) Any existing association which is fairly representative of the soybean producers of Kentucky may, at any time after July 12, 2006, make application to the State Board of Agriculture on forms prescribed by the board for certification and approval for the purpose of conducting a referendum among the producers of soybeans upon the question of levying an assessment under the provisions of KRS 247.510 to 247.595, and for collecting and utilizing the assessment for the purpose stated in the referendum.
(2) The Commissioner shall publish the application through the medium of the public press in the state within ten (10) days of receipt of the application.