Connecticut Senate Bill SB00443

Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/14
• Refer: 3/11/14
• Report Pass: 3/21/14
• Refer: 3/28/14
• Report Pass: 4/1/14
• Engrossed: 4/9/14

Caption

An Act Concerning Pesticides On School Grounds, Parks, Playgrounds, Athletic Fields And Municipal Greens And Banning The Sale And Use Of Genetically-engineered Lawn Or Turf Seeds.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly amend existing statutes regarding pesticide usage in public spaces. It would impose stricter regulations on pesticide applications, aiming to protect children and the environment. Additionally, the legislation also bans the sale and use of genetically-engineered lawn or turf seeds, which are designed to resist pesticides, thereby emphasizing a more cautious approach toward chemical use in landscaping.

Summary

SB00443 addresses the application of pesticides on school grounds, parks, playgrounds, and athletic fields. The bill aims to restrict the use of pesticides in these areas to enhance public health and safety for children and the community at large. It includes provisions that only allow certified pesticide applicators to apply pesticides unless there is an emergency that threatens human health, in which case, notification must be given prior to application.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB00443 appeared to be largely supportive among environmental advocacy groups and parents concerned about children's health, who view the stricter regulations as a necessary step toward safeguarding community health. However, there are concerns among agricultural stakeholders about the implications of banning genetically-engineered seeds, which some argue are essential for effective pest management and agricultural productivity.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between ensuring public health and addressing the concerns of agricultural stakeholders who rely on genetically-engineered seeds for crop management. The bill also raises issues about the availability and practicality of certified pesticide applicators, as well as the potential impact on local governments managing public spaces that may face increased regulatory burdens.