This bill aims to regulate the use of systemic insecticides and neonicotinoid insecticides in Minnesota, particularly concerning the sale and distribution of certain seeds and the treatment of ornamental outdoor plants and turf. It prohibits the sale or distribution of seeds coated or treated with systemic insecticides without prior approval from the commissioner of agriculture, effective January 1, 2029. Additionally, it establishes that outdoor ornamental plants and turf cannot be treated with neonicotinoid insecticides unless a specific environmental emergency is declared by the commissioner, who must provide a written order detailing the conditions under which such treatment is permissible.

The bill introduces new definitions for "insecticide," "neonicotinoid insecticide," and "systemic insecticide" within Minnesota Statutes 2024, and outlines the process for obtaining waivers for the use of treated seeds. It also includes provisions for civil penalties for violations of these regulations, with fines reaching up to $10,000 per violation. The commissioner is tasked with adopting rules to implement these changes and must report annually on the number of waivers granted. Overall, the legislation seeks to protect pollinator populations and promote environmental health by regulating the use of potentially harmful insecticides in agriculture and landscaping.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 18B.01, 18B.07