Vermont governor vetoes bill restricting neonicotinoid pesticide use

Governor Phil Scott has vetoed a bill that would largely prohibit neonicotinoid-treated seeds, citing concerns for farmers.

Emma Cotton reports for the VTDigger.

In short:

• Environmentalists support the bill, citing harm to pollinators, while Scott argues it unfairly targets farmers.
• The Vermont legislature may override the veto; the bill previously passed with strong support.
• The bill would take effect in 2029, allowing exemptions for specific agricultural emergencies.

Key quote:

“This bill unfairly targets dairy farmers reliant on corn crops and will harm farmers without achieving its goals for pollinators.”

— Phil Scott, Governor of Vermont

Why this matters:

Neonicotinoids, a class of insecticides, have been linked to declining bee populations and other environmental concerns. Advocates for the bill argue that limiting these chemicals is crucial for the health of pollinators, which are essential for biodiversity and the production of many crops. The veto has raised questions about how to best support sustainable farming practices that do not compromise environmental health.

Additional EHN coverage:

• Farm Bill: House proposal could wipe out communities’ power to prohibit pesticides
• Organic diets quickly reduce the amount of glyphosate in people’s bodies
• Pesticides are becoming increasingly toxic for the world's most important insects