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SD 473

An Act relative to improving pesticide protections for Massachusetts schoolchildren

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sal DiDomenico and 4 co-sponsors

Summary of SD 473: An Act relative to improving pesticide protections for Massachusetts schoolchildren OverviewBill Number: SD 473 Title: An Act relative to improving pesticide pr

Referred to the committee on Agriculture
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Bill Summary · SD 473

Summary of SD 473: An Act relative to improving pesticide protections for Massachusetts schoolchildren

Overview

Bill Number: SD 473
Title: An Act relative to improving pesticide protections for Massachusetts schoolchildren
Status: Referred to the committee on Agriculture
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This proposed bill aims to strengthen regulations around the use of pesticides on school grounds in Massachusetts. The primary goal is to better protect the health and safety of students by limiting their potential exposure to harmful chemicals. Proponents argue that current policies do not go far enough to safeguard children, who are especially vulnerable to the negative impacts of pesticide exposure.

Key Provisions

  • Bans the use of all non-organic pesticides on the grounds of public and private K-12 schools
  • Requires schools to adopt integrated pest management (IPM) programs that prioritize non-chemical control methods
  • Mandates that schools provide advance written notice to parents/guardians before any pesticide application
  • Establishes a pesticide-free buffer zone of at least 100 feet around all school buildings and playgrounds
  • Directs the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to develop comprehensive training and certification programs for school IPM coordinators

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would directly impact all public and private K-12 schools in Massachusetts, requiring them to overhaul their pest management practices and invest in organic alternatives. Parents and students would benefit from reduced pesticide exposure, potentially leading to improved health outcomes. Landscaping and pest control companies that service schools would need to adapt their services to comply with the new regulations.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

SD 473 was recently introduced in the Massachusetts state legislature and has been referred to the committee on Agriculture for initial review. If approved by the committee, the bill would then proceed to a full vote in the state Senate. Given the bill's focus on children's health and environmental protection, it may receive bipartisan support, but could also face opposition from industry groups. The timeline for potential passage and implementation remains uncertain at this stage.

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

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