Bill > S666

This bill directs the Massachusetts Pesticide Board, in collaboration with the State Reclamation and Mosquito Control Board, to develop alternative methods for property owners to opt out of wide-area pesticide and mosquito control applications beyond the current requirement of sending a certified letter to the municipal clerk. Specifically, the bill proposes two main alternative methods: first, municipalities can add an "opt out" option to their annual city or town census forms, allowing residents to elect to exclude their property from pesticide applications; and second, residents can hand-deliver a letter to the municipal clerk that includes their personal contact information, property address, and the specific types of pesticide application programs they wish to be excluded from. These regulatory changes must be implemented at least 90 days before the start of the 2026 pesticide spraying season, providing a more accessible and convenient way for property owners to decline pesticide applications on their land while maintaining the goal of public health and mosquito control.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S666