California is moving closer to banning paraquat, a weed killer linked to Parkinson's disease, after a key legislative committee approved the measure.
Carey Gillam reports for The New Lede.
In short:
- The ban would start on January 1, 2026, prohibiting all commerce involving paraquat.
- California Assemblymember Laura Friedman and the Environmental Working Group are pushing the measure, citing safer alternatives and health risks to farm workers.
- Internal documents revealed Syngenta’s awareness of paraquat’s risks and efforts to conceal evidence linking it to Parkinson's disease.
Key quote:
"Farm workers put food on our table, and we should do everything we can to make their jobs safer. No one should run the risk of chemical exposure on the job leading to their contracting Parkinson’s disease."
— Laura Friedman, California Assemblymember
Why this matters:
Paraquat has long been a staple for controlling weeds in agriculture, known for its effectiveness and efficiency. However, mounting scientific evidence has drawn connections between paraquat exposure and severe health risks, including the development of Parkinson's disease, a debilitating neurological disorder. For California's farmers, the ban could necessitate a transition to alternative weed management strategies, potentially altering agricultural practices. Advocates for the move argue that the health benefits outweigh the economic adjustments, emphasizing the need for safer, sustainable farming methods.
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