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H 4917

An Act relative to a town-wide ban on the use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs)

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Gordon

Massachusetts bill would prohibit municipalities from using potent rodent poisons (SGARs) that accumulate in wildlife and endanger predators through secondary poisoning.

Accompanied a new draft, see H5217
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Bill Summary · H 4917

Legislative bill overview

H 4917 proposes a town-wide ban on second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs), a class of rat and mouse poisons that are more potent and longer-acting than older alternatives. The bill would prohibit municipalities in Massachusetts from using or permitting the use of these chemicals within their jurisdictions. The bill has advanced through the legislative process and a companion measure (H 5217) was introduced in March 2026.

Why is this important

SGARs accumulate in animal tissues and pose significant risks to non-target wildlife, particularly predators and scavengers that consume poisoned rodents, including raptors, foxes, and domestic pets. Studies have documented widespread SGAR contamination in wildlife populations, making this a genuine environmental and animal welfare concern. A town-wide ban represents a meaningful local policy intervention on a chemical that several countries and some U.S. jurisdictions have already restricted or eliminated.

Potential points of contention

  • Business and pest control industry opposition: Pest control companies may argue SGARs are the most effective tools available and that restrictions could limit their service options or increase costs for residents and businesses dealing with rodent infestations
  • Effectiveness concerns: Critics may question whether bans simply shift poison use to first-generation anticoagulants or non-chemical methods, and whether alternative rodent control methods are equally practical or cost-effective
  • Municipal implementation burden: Towns would need to enforce the ban, establish penalties, and potentially fund alternative pest management approaches, creating administrative and budgetary challenges

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

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