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H 995

An Act authorizing the town of Orleans to adopt a pesticide reduction bylaw

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr and 1 co-sponsor

Summary of H 995: An Act authorizing the town of Orleans to adopt a pesticide reduction bylaw Bill OverviewThis bill, H 995, would authorize the town of Orleans to adopt a local by

Accompanied a study order, see H5149
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Bill Summary · H 995

Summary of H 995: An Act authorizing the town of Orleans to adopt a pesticide reduction bylaw

Bill Overview

This bill, H 995, would authorize the town of Orleans to adopt a local bylaw to regulate the use of pesticides within the town's boundaries. The bill is intended to empower the town to take action to reduce pesticide use and exposure in order to protect human health and the local environment.

Key Provisions

The main elements of H 995 include:

  1. Authorization for Pesticide Reduction Bylaw: The bill would grant the town of Orleans the legal authority to develop and implement a local bylaw that restricts or prohibits the use of pesticides on both public and private properties within the town.

  2. Scope of Bylaw: The town's bylaw could regulate the sale, application, and disposal of pesticides, as well as establish permitting or notification requirements for pesticide use.

  3. Exemptions: The bylaw would be allowed to include reasonable exemptions, such as for agricultural operations, organic gardening, or public health emergencies.

  4. Enforcement: The town would be responsible for enforcing the bylaw and could impose fines or other penalties for non-compliance.

Potential Impact

If enacted, H 995 would grant the town of Orleans the legal authority to significantly restrict or reduce the use of synthetic pesticides within its borders. This could lead to:

  • Lower exposure to harmful chemicals for residents, particularly children and vulnerable populations
  • Protection of local ecosystems, wildlife, and drinking water sources from pesticide contamination
  • Promotion of organic and sustainable landscaping and gardening practices
  • Potential economic impacts on landscaping businesses and retailers that rely on pesticide sales

Procedural Details

  • H 995 was introduced in the state legislature on February 27, 2025.
  • A public hearing on the bill is scheduled for October 27, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in hearing room A-1.
  • This bill replaces a previous version, HD 1574, which was introduced earlier in the legislative session.

Overall, H 995 represents an effort to empower the town of Orleans to take local action to limit pesticide use and promote more environmentally-friendly land management practices. The bill's outcome could have significant implications for public health, ecological protection, and the local economy if enacted.

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

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