New York Law Protects Pollinators by Restricting Neonicotinoid Pesticide Uses

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed into law Legislation known as the Birds and Bees Protection Act. This new law prohibits the use of certain neonicotinoid pesticide (neonics) treated corn, soybean, or wheat seeds and neonicotinoid pesticides for outdoor ornamental plants and turfs, in the interest of protecting pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. The legislation allows sufficient time for innovative research on alternatives and the development of more cost-effective products that are less harmful to the environment. After this period, the use of neonicotinoids will be subject to science-based evaluations and waiver provisions to assist farm and agriculture operations in the transition to this new program.