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December 15, 2022 (MONTPELIER, VT) – Legislators have delayed a decision on a new rule governing pesticide use in Vermont after advocates and community members raised significant concerns. Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) released the following statement in response.
“People have a right to make their voice heard when harmful chemicals are being used in their neighborhoods,” said CLF attorney Mason Overstreet. “The proposed rule threatens public health and runs counter to the goals laid out in Vermont’s climate laws. Legislators made the right decision in postponing a vote, and this rule should go back to the drawing board.”
The proposed regulation is the first update to Vermont’s pesticide regulations in 30 years. They include several measures that are contrary to Vermont’s Climate Action Plan. The rule also does not allow the public to get involved or challenge the use of pesticides in their communities. Finally, the rule does not go nearly far enough in preventing the use of toxic PFAS chemicals in pesticides.
CLF’s comments on the rule are here.
CLF experts are available for further comment.
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