Bill > S64

This bill aims to improve pesticide protections for Massachusetts schoolchildren by expanding and modifying existing law regarding pesticide use near schools and child-care facilities. The bill broadens the scope of properties where pesticide restrictions apply, now including Department of Children and Families properties, juvenile court facilities, youth services facilities, and sports fields for town youth teams. It also extends pesticide restrictions to include properties within 150 feet of these locations and their abutters. The bill introduces new requirements that schools, child care centers, public higher education institutions, and school-age child care programs can only use pesticide products that are either classified as exempt by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or contain active ingredients published on a specific national list. The legislation applies these restrictions regardless of whether the property is owned publicly or privately, and allows for hardship waivers at the department's discretion. These changes are designed to minimize children's exposure to potentially harmful pesticides in environments where they learn, play, and receive care.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S64