Bill > S05983

This bill amends the New York environmental conservation law to allow local governments with existing freshwater wetlands protection laws to adopt ordinances prohibiting pesticide application in certain wetlands, with important exceptions. Specifically, local governments can restrict pesticide use in wetlands connected to public water supplies, but cannot prohibit pesticide applications for controlling invasive species, pests posing significant public health risks, noxious weeds designated as harmful to ecosystem health, or for protecting critical native plant species. The bill also preserves pesticide use in farm operations as defined by agricultural law. Any local law implementing these restrictions must take effect on the first day of January following its adoption. This legislation provides local governments with additional flexibility to protect sensitive wetland ecosystems while maintaining necessary pest management and agricultural operations, ensuring a balanced approach to environmental conservation and practical land use.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5983