Senators gave preliminary approval …. to a bill that would restrict the use of a class of pesticides considered to be toxic to bees. But senators expressed concerns that, by not banning the pesticide, the bill doesn’t go far enough to protect pollinators.
The bill, H.205, classifies neonicotinoids as a “restricted use” pesticide, meaning that only certified applicators would be able to buy and use them. Originally developed in the 1980s, neonicotinoids are now the most widely used class of insecticide in the world, largely because of their use to treat agricultural seeds. Neonicotinoids have come under fire in recent years for their toxicity to bees.
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Sen. Anthony Pollina, D/P-Washington, warned senators while reporting the bill on the Senate floor that “if we lose bees, we lose our food supply” …. Pollina referred to H.205 as a “small step” in the direction of banning neonicotinoids in that it would curtail home use but not restrict agricultural or commercial use.
Related on the SLP
[Editor’s note: Read Are GMOs and pesticides threatening bees? to learn more.]
The bill exempts pet products and seeds treated with neonicotinoids, which are commonly used by farmers growing corn and soy.
Read full, original article: Senate OKs bee-harming pesticide restriction
