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H 911

An act relating to prohibiting PFAS chemicals in pesticides and pesticide packaging

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by David Durfee

Vermont would ban PFAS in pesticides and their packaging sold in the state, requiring PFAS-free products and packaging with enforcement and potential penalties.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry
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Bill Summary · H 911

Summary of Bill H 911 (Session 2025-2026) – Vermont

Purpose and intent

  • The bill aims to prohibit the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in pesticides and in pesticide packaging sold or distributed in Vermont.
  • The overarching goal is to reduce human and environmental exposure to PFAS through agricultural inputs and to promote safer alternatives and packaging practices.

Key provisions and changes

  • Prohibition on PFAS in pesticides: The bill would make it unlawful to manufacture, sell, distribute, or use pesticides that contain PFAS in Vermont.
  • Prohibition on PFAS in pesticide packaging: The bill would bar PFAS from pesticide packaging materials used for products sold or distributed in the state.
  • Definitions: The measure would define PFAS and related terms as used in the statute to ensure clear application to pesticides and packaging.
  • Effective date and phase-in: The bill is likely to specify a compliance timeline (e.g., a date by which existing products must be PFAS-free and a date by which new products must meet the standard). Exact dates would be set in the bill or accompanying regulatory guidance.
  • Enforcement and penalties: The bill would authorize enforcement mechanisms by the relevant state agency (likely the Vermont Department of Agriculture, Food and Markets or a related agency) and may include penalties for violations, such as fines or product recalls.
  • Regulatory alignment: Provisions may authorize the agency to adopt rules or guidance to implement the prohibitions, define exemptions (if any), and establish testing, labeling, or reporting requirements to demonstrate PFAS-free status.
  • Exemptions or transitions: The bill may include limited exemptions (e.g., for essential uses or certain PFAS compounds) and provide transitional support for manufacturers to reformulate products.

Who and what is affected

  • Affected entities: Manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and agricultural applicators who handle pesticides and pesticide packaging sold or used in Vermont.
  • Products affected: All pesticides and pesticide packaging containing PFAS, as defined by the bill.
  • Consumers and environment: Indirectly affected through reduced PFAS exposure and potentially safer agricultural inputs and packaging.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduction and referral: The bill was introduced and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry on February 24, 2026.
  • Legislative process: As a first-time referral, it will proceed through committee evaluation, potential amendments, and floor votes in the Vermont House, with further actions (Senate consideration, potential governor action) following typical legislative timelines.
  • Sponsor: Co-sponsor David Durfee (indicating bipartisan or local sponsor involvement).

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Public health and environmental benefits: Reduced PFAS exposure via pesticides and packaging, contributing to safer food production and environment.
  • Industry impact: Requirement to reformulate products or source PFAS-free packaging, possible short- to mid-term cost implications for manufacturers and retailers; may stimulate market shift toward PFAS-free alternatives.
  • Compliance considerations: Need for testing, labeling, and possible verification processes to demonstrate PFAS-free status; potential development of state-adopted standards or third-party certification.

Note: The summary reflects the bill’s stated purpose and typical structure for prohibitions of PFAS in pesticides and packaging. For precise language, definitions, specific dates, exemptions, penalties, and regulatory procedures, consult the official bill text and any committee amendments.

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

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