This bill establishes a prohibition on the sale, purchase, application, or use of pesticides containing paraquat, a chemical known for its hazardous effects. It introduces new definitions for "paraquat" and "work group" and outlines that the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS) or the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) may allow paraquat's use strictly for research purposes under specific safety protocols. Additionally, by December 31, 2026, individuals currently using paraquat must report their usage to DALS and DNR, detailing quantities, geographic areas, and types of applications. This information will be compiled into a statewide report published on DALS's website.

The bill also establishes an Environmental Research and Sustainable Farming Advisory Work Group, which will include various stakeholders such as academic researchers, farmers, and public health advocates. This work group is tasked with reviewing the impacts of paraquat and other hazardous pesticides, identifying sustainable agricultural practices, and submitting annual reports with findings and recommendations to the governor and the general assembly for five years. The bill includes penalties for violations, which can result in civil penalties or serious misdemeanor charges. The provisions of the bill take effect immediately, except for the paraquat prohibition, which will be enforced starting January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 206.2