SOURCE:
https://libn.com/2023/12/28/hochul-signs-birds-and-bees-act/
Adina Genn - December 28, 2023
To help safeguard pollinators, New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed the “Birds and Bees Protection Act.”
Signed into law last week, the legislation prohibits the use of specific neonicotinoid pesticide-treated corn, soybean and wheat seeds and neonicotinoid pesticides for outdoor ornamental plants and turfs. The ban goes into effect in 2027, according to published reports.
The legislation aims to protect pollinators, birds and other wildlife, according to the state.
“By signing the Birds and Bees Protection Act, New York is taking a significant stride in protecting our kids, environment and essential pollinators,” Hochul said in a written statement.
“This law underscores our commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem while we prioritize sustainable farming and agricultural practices,” she added.
With the ban going into effect in 2027, the legislation was designed to allow enough time for “innovative research on alternatives and the development of more cost-effective products that are less harmful to the environment,” according to the state.
After this period, the use of neonicotinoids will be subject to science-based evaluations and waiver provisions to assist farm and agriculture operations in the transition to this new program.
While some farmers expressed concern over any new expenses by the law, ultimately the legislation was supported by the New York Farm Bureau.
“New York Farm Bureau greatly appreciates Governor Hochul’s leadership in offering thoughtful chapter amendments on the ‘Birds and Bees Protection Act,’” New York Farm Bureau President David Fisher said in a written statement.
The governor “sought input from all sides and reached consensus on a balanced approach that ensures farms will have safe risk management tools that they need to grow food for our state,” he added. “New York Farm Bureau also is pleased about the continued role the Department of Environmental Conservation will have in consultation with the Department of Agriculture and Markets to make science based regulatory decisions. The Governor once again demonstrated her willingness to find a reasonable pathway forward to support New York agriculture.”
Environmentalists were pleased about the legislation.
“This legislation will leave a legacy of cleaner, safer drinking water and saves our pollinators so that they can continue to pollinate 75 percent of the fruit, nuts and vegetables we eat,” Citizens Campaign for the Environment Executive Director Adrienne Esposito said in a written statement.
“As we enjoy a holiday meal which may include pasta, green beans or fruit pies we should thank the bees for their role in providing our food and now we can thank Governor Hochul for her terrific support in signing this bill,” she added.
“By eliminating unnecessary and harmful chemicals in our treatment of pests, this measure will help ensure the survival of our essential pollinators and in doing so protect New York’s environment, food security, and agricultural economy,” New York League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe said in a written statement.