Earlier this summer, Hawaii became the first state to ban the use of pesticides containing the chemical Chlorpyrifos. This ban is a directive of Senate Bill 3095, which sets a national precedent for pesticide regulation and funds monitoring efforts.
Chlorpyrifos is a toxic chemical linked to numerous negative health impacts, including brain damage in children, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease. SB 3095 bans the use of pesticides containing chlorpyrifos starting in 2019, with a 3-year extension period for businesses to adjust to the new requirements. The bill also prohibits entities from spraying pesticides within 100 feet of schools during normal school hours to further protect children from exposure to toxic chemicals.
In addition to regulating pesticide usage, SB 3095 allocates funding to create a pesticide drift monitoring study. Through measuring the scope and effect of chemical contamination as well as banning chlorpyrifos, Hawaii’s bill establishes a strong model of pesticide regulation for agricultural states.
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