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HD 4608

An Act authorizing the city of Salem to prohibit the application of second generation anti-coagulant rodenticides within its borders

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Manny Cruz

Empowers Salem to ban SGARs citywide; takes effect on passage, affecting residents, licensed pest pros, and enforcement, to cut wildlife poisoning risk.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 4608

Summary: An Act authorizing the city of Salem to prohibit the application of second generation anticoagulant rodenticides within its borders (HD 4608)

Purpose and intent

This bill would empower the City of Salem to prohibit the use of second generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) anywhere within Salem’s municipal boundaries. The aim is to give Salem a local tool to reduce environmental and wildlife risks associated with SGAR use, by allowing a city‑level ban or restriction.

Key provisions

  • Section 1: Authority for local prohibition
    • Notwithstanding Chapter 132B of the General Laws or any other applicable law, Salem may enact an ordinance prohibiting the application of SGARs within the city.
    • The prohibition would apply to all applications by licensed commercial applicators, as defined in 333 C.M.R. 10.00.
  • Section 2: Effective date
    • The act takes effect upon passage, meaning the authority to prohibit would be available immediately once the bill becomes law.

Who would be affected

  • Salem residents and property owners: If Salem adopts an ordinance, SGAR use would be restricted or banned within city limits.
  • Licensed pest control operators: The prohibition would cover applications conducted by licensed commercial applicators operating in Salem, potentially affecting their standard practices and service offerings.
  • Local government and enforcement: Salem would be responsible for implementing, enforcing, and monitoring any SGAR prohibition.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Legislative status: The bill is presented in the Massachusetts General Court as a proposed local-option measure. It has a history in the House docket (House No. 4608) with petitioners Manny Cruz and Joan B. Lovely and note of local approval for the city.
  • Local approval pathway: The bill indicates local approval has been noted, suggesting Salem could proceed with adopting an ordinance if the act becomes law.
  • Effective date: Immediate upon enactment of the bill (no extended phase‑in period specified).

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Environmental and wildlife benefits: Reducing SGAR use could lower risks of secondary poisoning in non-target wildlife and domestic animals.
  • Regulatory alignment: The previewed override of other laws suggests a strong local control authority; Salem would need to align its ordinance with state pesticide regulations and enforcement mechanisms.
  • Economic effects: Pest control businesses may need to adjust products and services offered within Salem.

This summary captures the bill’s core purpose, provisions, affected stakeholders, and anticipated timeline dynamics.

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

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