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SB 228

An Act amending the act of March 1, 1974 (P.L.90, No.24), known as the Pennsylvania Pesticide Control Act of 1973, further providing for delegation of duties and exclusion of local laws and regulations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Carolyn Comitta and 3 co-sponsors

SB 228 clarifies how Pennsylvania's state pesticide regulations preempt or exclude conflicting local ordinances, potentially limiting municipalities' ability to impose stricter pesticide controls than state law allows.

Referred to Local Government
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 228

Legislative bill overview

SB 228 amends Pennsylvania's 1974 Pesticide Control Act to modify how regulatory duties are delegated and clarify the relationship between state pesticide regulations and local ordinances. The bill specifically addresses exclusion provisions that would prevent municipalities from creating their own pesticide rules that conflict with or exceed state standards.

Why is this important

This bill affects how pesticide use is regulated across Pennsylvania by determining whether local governments can impose stricter controls than the state allows. The outcome influences public health protections, agricultural practices, and municipal autonomy—particularly relevant for communities concerned about pesticide exposure in schools, parks, or residential areas versus agricultural and landscaping interests seeking uniform statewide standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state uniformity: Municipalities that want stricter pesticide bans (like neonicotinoids or glyphosate restrictions) may view this as limiting their authority, while agricultural and lawn care industries prefer statewide standards to avoid patchwork compliance
  • Preemption scope: The bill's language on "exclusion of local laws" could broadly prevent local ordinances or could be narrowly tailored—the exact parameters remain unclear without the bill text and will likely generate debate
  • Public health jurisdiction: Communities concerned about pesticide exposure in schools or parks may argue local health authorities should have override authority, whereas state regulators may argue centralized management prevents conflicting rules

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

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