NJ Assembly Environment Committee Passes Legislation To Restrict Neonics Chemical Linked to Bee Die-Off
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Environment New Jersey
Trenton — The New Jersey Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee passed legislation (A2070) by a 4-1-1 vote this afternoon to classify neonicotinoids, commonly known as neonics, as restricted use pesticides and establish a list of chemicals belonging to this class of pesticides.
New Jersey is on its way to joining other states, including Maryland, Connecticut and Vermont, that have implemented similar restrictions on neonics.The restriction would limit application of the pesticide to certified and licensed applicators, removing use in non-agricultural settings such as gardens, lawns and golf courses.
These systemic pesticides are known to adversely affect pollinator health and have been linked to bee population declines. When bees are exposed, neonics can kill bees directly or impair their ability to fend of disease, navigate, grow, or survive the winter.
In response, Doug O’Malley, director of Environment New Jersey, released the following statement:
“Bees have an immeasurable impact in sustaining our New Jersey ecosystems. Restricting the use of neonics in key pollinator areas such as our lawns and golf courses is a vital step in creating a more habitable environment for these creatures to thrive.
“For the sake of our state insect, the honeybee, and the approximately 450 species of native bees across the mid-Atlantic, New Jersey is moving forward with measures to protect these and other pollinators. We applaud the Assembly Environment Committee and prime sponsor Asm. Clinton Calabrese for working to pass this legislation.”
