Bill > LD1323

This bill directs the Board of Pesticides Control to conduct a comprehensive study on neonicotinoids, a type of pesticide known for its potential harmful effects on pollinators and the environment. The board is required to investigate seven key areas: the impacts of neonicotinoids on pollinators, the costs and market availability of neonicotinoid-treated seeds, environmental effects on soil, water, and plant tissues, human toxicity, alternative crop protection methods, the toxicity of these alternatives, and their application methods. The study will pay special attention to potato and corn crops. The board must solicit public and stakeholder feedback through a public hearing or information request. A preliminary report is due by January 15, 2026, and a final report with findings and recommendations is due by January 15, 2027, with the potential for the legislature to submit a related bill in 2027. The bill allocates $156,500 in special revenue funds for 2025-26 to support the research and contractual services needed to complete this comprehensive evaluation of neonicotinoids.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1323&snum=132