New York Needs Hochul to Sign Bill to Protect Pollinators From Pesticides
Opinion Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the author/producer’s interpretation of facts and data.
The Birds and Bees Protection Act is a vital piece of legislation that would limit the use of neonic pesticides in New York, which are toxic to pollinating insects. It has been passed by both houses of the New York State legislature, and Gov. Kathy Hochul must sign it.
Neonics are the most utilized of any insecticides. Once ingested, these chemicals are fatal to pollinators such as the already endangered native bees. Being systemic, these pesticides are absorbed into the plant, making their impact long-lasting after application.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture census found that Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara counties have experienced lower apple and cherry yields due to lack of pollinators. These industries are essential to New York’s economy, but 40 to 60 percent of the state’s native pollinators are at risk of disappearing due to neonics.
Europe already bans neonics, and Canada has largely phased out neonic-coated corn and soybean seeds. The Birds and Bees Act would be the first legislation to address neonic seed coatings in the U.S.
As a young person, I see the bill as necessary to protect the future of our state’s ecosystem and economy. Gov. Hochul must continue New York’s nation-leading environmental laws and regulations and sign the bill.
Clara Brine
Pleasantville
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