WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 386

Pesticides - PFAS Chemicals - Prohibitions

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Allen and 36 co-sponsors

Maryland prohibits PFAS chemicals in pesticides to reduce persistent environmental contamination and health exposure risks from food and water supplies.

Referred Education, Energy, and the Environment
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 386

Legislative bill overview

HB 386 prohibits the use of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemicals in pesticides and pesticide products sold or distributed in Maryland. The bill has passed third reading and received favorable reports from the Health and Government Operations committee with amendments, moving toward final approval.

Why is this important

PFAS chemicals are persistent synthetic compounds that accumulate in the environment and human body, linked to health concerns including cancer, liver damage, and immune system effects. This bill addresses growing concern about PFAS contamination in food chains and water supplies by restricting their use in agricultural chemical products, contributing to broader state-level PFAS regulation efforts.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on agriculture: Farmers and pesticide manufacturers may face increased costs if forced to reformulate products or switch to alternative chemicals, potentially affecting crop yields or pesticide effectiveness
  • Scope limitations: The bill targets only PFAS in pesticides; PFAS appears in numerous other consumer and industrial products, so this addresses only one contamination pathway
  • Interstate commerce complications: Restrictions may create compliance challenges for agricultural operations near state borders or suppliers distributing products across multiple states with varying regulations

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

Sign in to ask a question.