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SB 911

Aerial pesticide application; Virginia Pollinator Protection Strategy, civil penalty.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Stanley

SB 911 restricts aerial pesticide applications in Virginia and mandates a pollinator protection strategy while establishing civil penalties for violations.

Passed by indefinitely in Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources (12-Y 1-N)
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Bill Summary · SB 911

Legislative bill overview

SB 911 establishes restrictions on aerial pesticide applications in Virginia and directs the state to develop a Virginia Pollinator Protection Strategy. The bill imposes civil penalties for violations and aims to protect pollinators and sensitive ecosystems from widespread pesticide spray.

Why is this important

Pollinators like bees are critical to agriculture and food production; aerial pesticide application can kill non-target insects and contaminate broader areas than ground application. The bill represents an attempt to balance agricultural pest management with environmental protection and pollinator conservation, addressing growing concerns about bee colony decline and ecosystem health.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural industry impact: Restrictions on aerial application methods could increase costs for farmers relying on this efficient pest control method, particularly for large operations or time-sensitive treatments
  • Scope and enforceability: The bill's specific restrictions on aerial application remain unclear from available information; overly broad rules could burden farmers while narrow rules may provide insufficient protection
  • Strategy development costs: Creating and implementing a Virginia Pollinator Protection Strategy requires state resources and may involve additional regulatory burdens on applicators and landowners

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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