Connecticut House Bill HB05411

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/13
• Refer: 1/18/13

Caption

An Act Authorizing Certain Municipal Regulations Of The Application Of Pesticides On Residential Properties.

Impact

If passed, HB 5411 would significantly alter the regulatory landscape for pesticide application in residential areas across the state. Currently, the application of pesticides is governed by state-level regulations, usually offering a baseline standard for safety and environmental protection. This bill would grant cities and towns the latitude to impose their own rules that could surpass state minimal standards, thus fostering a more localized approach to environmental and public health safety.

Summary

House Bill 5411 aims to empower municipalities with the authority to regulate the application of pesticides on residential properties, provided their regulations are more stringent than those established by the state's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. The intention behind this legislation is to enhance protections for aquifers and environmentally sensitive areas, as well as to safeguard children and pets from the potential toxic effects associated with pesticide use. By allowing local governments to enact stricter regulations, the bill responds to public concerns regarding pesticide safety and environmental health.

Contention

Despite the positive intent of HB 5411, it may face opposition from various stakeholders, including agricultural entities and pesticide manufacturers who might argue that such regulations could lead to inconsistencies and burdens for businesses operating across different municipalities. Critics could claim that local regulations might also complicate agricultural practices, especially if neighboring towns adopt significantly different standards. The debate surrounding this bill will likely center on balancing municipal autonomy in addressing local concerns against the need for a cohesive and manageable regulatory framework at the state level.