Bill > HB1285

This bill addresses pesticide use and safety in Hawaii by making two key changes: first, it requires the Department of Agriculture to report restricted use pesticide quantities using a consistent unit of measurement in its public summaries, which will help improve transparency and understanding of pesticide usage across counties. Second, the bill expands the buffer zone for restricted use pesticides from 100 feet to one-half mile around schools and state or county public parks, effective January 1, 2025. The legislative findings highlight scientific research demonstrating that pesticides can drift significant distances (up to 0.8 miles) and pose neurological risks to children, referencing previous state action like the 2018 ban on chlorpyrifos. The bill aims to protect public health by preventing pesticide application near areas frequented by children, with an exception for whole structure fumigation, and ensures that when there are conflicts between the new buffer zone requirement and pesticide label instructions, the more restrictive provision will apply.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1285&year=2026