Prohibits sale of milkweed plants treated with certain pesticides.
Impact
This legislation comes in response to significant population declines of monarch butterflies, which have been reported at critical levels across the United States and particularly in New Jersey. The bill not only addresses the immediate concern of pesticide use but reinforces the state's commitment to environmental conservation through dedicated regulations that will benefit biodiversity. With penalties set for non-compliance, it holds individuals and businesses accountable for adhering to these new environmental standards.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3017 aims to protect the declining population of the monarch butterfly by prohibiting the sale, offer for sale, or transportation of any milkweed plants treated with harmful pesticides. The bill instructs the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, to create a list of pesticides deemed harmful to these butterflies, ensuring that appropriate regulations are in place. The legislation highlights the ecological importance of milkweed as the sole plant on which monarch butterflies lay their eggs and as their primary food source during larval development.
Contention
While proponents of the bill advocate for the necessity of protecting the monarch butterfly and mitigating the adverse effects of certain pesticides, there may be some contention among stakeholders, such as farmers and garden centers, who might feel they are being imposed restrictions. The potential economic implications for those selling milkweed plants could spark a debate about balancing environmental conservation with business interests. Concerns may also arise regarding the feasibility and effectiveness of enforcing the proposed regulations.
Prohibits sale, distribution, import, export or propagation of certain invasive species without permit from Department of Agriculture; establishes NJ Invasive Species Council.