New York to Ban Chlorpyrifos Through Regulations

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has reportedly vetoed a bill that would have banned the use of chlorpyrifos by the end of 2021 but directed the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation to issue a ban on the pesticide. His direction will result in an immediate ban on aerial uses of chlorpyrifos and phase out other uses by December 2020. An exception for spraying apple tree trunks will be permitted until July 2021.

“This bill bypasses the rigorous process available to challenge an approved product and substitute the legislature’s judgment for the expertise of chemists, health experts and other subject matter experts in this field,” Cuomo stated in his veto message. “While I do not agree that a pesticide should be banned by legislative decree, I agree that New York must lead the way by taking action to ensure the public that all regulatory options are taken to limit exposure to chlorpyrifos.”