Please join us today by calling on state senators in New Hampshire to oppose House Bill (HB) 1698. This bill would allow the aerial spraying of pesticides by drones up to 20 feet in the air without notifying the public, threatening the well-being of pollinators, wildlife, and humans who may cross their path. HB 1698 passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and is on its way to the Senate floor. Coming up for a vote on May 2, 2024—please see the bill details and progress linked here!
House Bill 1698 exempts the application of pesticides using drones from notification procedures. The bill adds a new paragraph to RSA 430:34-a, stating that the notification requirements for aerial pesticide application do not apply to the aerial application of pesticides by a person with a valid certificate of registration or permit, while using unmanned aircraft for agricultural purposes at a height not exceeding 50 feet above ground level. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage.
This proposed legislation language flies in the face of what can and should be New Hampshire's comprehensive approach to ensure those at greatest risk from pesticide exposure—children, those with preexisting health conditions, essential workers, and landscapers—are fully protected. The bill's language is unacceptable, given the known harms of pesticide drift through the air, waterways, and soil.
Beyond Pesticides opposes HB 1698-FN based on decades of experience reviewing the latest scientific analysis regarding commonly used toxic pesticides in public and private spaces.
Click here to view Beyond Pesticides' testimony in opposition to the bill.
Please take action today—thank you for your help protecting public health in New Hampshire!
>> Tell your state senator to oppose HB 1698-FN exempting aerial application of pesticides using drones from notification processes, exposing Granite State families and pollinators to poisons hazardous to our health.
The target for this Action is the N.H. State Senate.