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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 13, 2023 10:11 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Mandy Steele and Rep. Christopher M. Rabb |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Restricting the Use of Neonicotinoids |
| Neonicotinoids are a class of neuro-active insecticides, chemically similar to nicotine. As one of the most widely used groups of insecticides in the world, they are praised for their ease of application. However, though neonicotinoids are a highly effective form of neutralizing pests, they pose a danger to non-target species like honeybees, which are among the most widely used and dependable pollinators. Further, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, an estimated 80% of crops grown in Pennsylvania are dependent on insect pollination. Neonicotinoids are designed to act as a poison on an insect’s nervous system, causing paralysis and death. Insects exposed to nonlethal doses often experience weakened critical functions, including navigation, stamina, memory, and fertility, as well as a weakened immune system. A recent study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B, the leading biological research journal of the United Kingdom, found that chemicals within neonicotinoids had reduced the sperm count of afflicted male honeybees by nearly 40%. The use of these chemicals in the European Union was banned in 2013, but they continue to be used here in the United States. We believe it is time for Pennsylvania to protect honeybees and other pollinators. For this reason, we will be introducing legislation to place restrictions on the use of neonicotinoids and the sale of seeds and plants that have been treated with neonicotinoids. The legislation would also require the Pesticide Advisory Board to develop and provide training and educational materials on the proper handling and use of neonicotinoids. Please join us in co-sponsoring this important legislation. |