Connecticut House Bill HB05519

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/11
• Refer: 1/20/11

Caption

An Act Concerning The Use Of Integrated Pest Management Plans At Certain Municipal Facilities And On Playing Fields.

Impact

Should this bill be enacted, it would potentially alter the current regulations regarding pesticide application in municipal settings. By mandating a report from the Department of Environmental Protection on the viability of extending these management plans, the bill advocates for more environmentally-friendly practices within government-operated facilities. This shift could positively influence ecological health in the regions affected by municipal operations and may pave the way for stricter regulations regarding pesticide use in the future.

Summary

House Bill 05519 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the use of integrated pest management (IPM) plans at municipal facilities, particularly focusing on schools and their playing fields. The bill seeks to amend section 10-231b of the general statutes to require the Commissioner of Environmental Protection to assess the applicability of extending IPM plans beyond schools to other municipal facilities. This legislative effort reflects an increasing concern for environmental health and the need to regulate pesticide use in public spaces.

Contention

Noteworthy discussions around HB 05519 may revolve around the balance between pest management and public safety. Proponents of integrated pest management advocate for its implementation due to its less harmful nature compared to traditional pesticide use. However, opponents might express concerns about the effectiveness of such methods in controlling pests adequately, particularly in settings such as schools where children's health is a concern. The broader implications of this bill could also spark debates regarding local autonomy in pesticide regulation and the cost implications of transitioning to IPM systems.