Kids deserve to learn and play in a toxin-free environment. To ensure this happens, State Senator Brenda McKenna introduced SB326, the Public Schools Pesticide Management Act. This commonsense measure will replace the use of toxic pesticides with non and least-toxic alternative products and practices.
Compared to adults, young children come into closer contact with areas where pesticides have been applied, like parks and playgrounds. Children also have developing organ systems that are more sensitive to pesticide exposure. Coming into contact with a pesticide at a young age does not build immunity, like exposure to bacteria and other germs. Instead, young children's exposure to pesticides increase the risk of diseases like cancer, asthma, and neurological disorders like ADHD. The Public Schools Pesticide Management Act would stop toxic pesticide use around schools, parks, and community playgrounds to safeguard children's health.
Experience from states and numerous communities throughout the U.S. has shown that laws that protect children where they learn and play are effective at reducing exposure to pesticides, while maintaining pest-free indoor spaces and beautiful landscapes. This law would make sure toxic pesticides are used only in a strictly defined public health emergency, and require schools to follow environmentally friendly ecological pest management practices. Under this act, pesticides used where children learn and play will be limited to the least-toxic, yet still effective products on the market.
For more information, please see Beyond Pesticides' infographic on the Public Schools Pesticide Management Act, and share it widely with your network to generate support!
With your action, together we can make New Mexico a national leader in protecting children from hazardous pesticide exposure.