Bill > SB228

This bill amends the Pennsylvania Pesticide Control Act to modify regulations regarding local authority over pesticide use. The legislation maintains that pesticide regulation is primarily a state-level responsibility, broadly preempting local governments from creating their own pesticide regulations. However, the bill does provide a narrow exception allowing municipal corporations to establish restricted application districts in densely populated areas (with at least 300 people per square mile). Under this exception, municipalities can limit pesticide applications by commercial applicators on privately held outdoor areas, but cannot regulate aerial applications, public property applications, agricultural applications, or applications by public applicators. The bill requires the Department of Community and Economic Development to create a sample advisory ordinance within 120 days to help municipalities understand and implement these limited regulatory powers. The changes aim to provide a consistent, statewide approach to pesticide regulation while giving municipalities a small degree of localized control. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=228