This bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by adding a new subpart that addresses the regulation of paraquat dichloride, a herbicide. Starting December 1, 2027, the sale of any herbicide containing paraquat dichloride will be prohibited, followed by a ban on its use beginning December 1, 2028. The bill also establishes a paraquat dichloride fund within the state treasury, which will be managed by the state treasurer and used to support agricultural operations transitioning away from this herbicide.

The fund will provide grants through a cost-share program to assist farmers in covering the costs associated with switching to alternative products. The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy will oversee the fund and the implementation of the cost-share program, which includes establishing eligibility criteria, application requirements, and a buy-back program for safe disposal of existing paraquat dichloride products. Violations of the sales and usage prohibitions may result in civil fines of up to $10,000, enforceable by local prosecutors or the attorney general.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 324.101, 324.90106