The bill amends Section 23-25-4 of the General Laws in Chapter 23-25, "Pesticide Control," by introducing new definitions for first and second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides. It prohibits the sale of first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides in consumer and online retail stores starting March 1, 2027, and second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides beginning January 1, 2028. Furthermore, the use of these rodenticides will be restricted from January 1, 2029, with exceptions for public health activities, medical waste facilities, and agricultural sites.

In addition to these amendments, the bill establishes a new chapter titled "Rodent Integrated Pest Management Pilot Program Act," which allows municipalities to create voluntary pest management pilot programs aimed at controlling rodent populations through integrated pest management strategies. Municipalities can designate an agency to oversee the program, conduct inspections, and track the effectiveness of various interventions. A report on the outcomes and challenges must be submitted to the municipality's mayor and the department of environmental management. The bill also creates an integrated pest management fund to support these initiatives, with provisions set to sunset on October 1, 2029, unless extended by the general assembly. Sections 1 and 4 will take effect upon passage, while sections 2 and 3 will take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
7222: 23-25-4