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HB 1342

Pesticide and Pest Control - State-Owned Property - Pesticide Use Restrictions and Pollinator Habitat

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Foley and 4 co-sponsors

Maryland bill restricts pesticides on state property and mandates pollinator habitat creation to protect declining bee and butterfly populations essential for agriculture and ecosystems.

Hearing 3/05 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1342

Legislative bill overview

HB 1342 restricts pesticide use on Maryland state-owned properties and requires the establishment of pollinator habitat on these lands. The bill aims to reduce chemical pesticide applications while dedicating portions of state property to support bee, butterfly, and other pollinator populations that are critical for agricultural and ecosystem health.

Why is this important

Pollinator populations have declined significantly due to habitat loss and pesticide exposure, threatening food crop production and natural ecosystems. By converting state-owned land into pollinator habitat and reducing pesticide use on public properties, Maryland would demonstrate environmental stewardship while potentially reducing long-term pest management costs through ecological approaches.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and timeline: Converting state properties to pollinator habitat requires upfront investment in native plantings, maintenance protocols, and staff training, with unclear funding sources
  • Pest management trade-offs: Reducing pesticide use may temporarily increase pest-related damage to state facilities, landscaping, and surrounding areas until alternative control methods become established
  • Property management complexity: State agencies managing diverse properties (offices, parks, military bases) face varying pest pressures and habitat compatibility, potentially requiring inconsistent implementation standards

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

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