This legislation will simply allow communities where there has been a problem to require commercial businesses to be good to neighbors. Those neighbors with respiratory problems or other health related conditions could take steps to avoid an exposure that could cause immediate, serious problems. Furthermore, there is a great deal we do not yet know about the long term effects of pesticides, so it makes sense to be cautious. With prior notification people would have the information they need to avoid unnecessary exposures, particularly to children and pets. Neighbors could choose to store the grill, cover the sandbox and other play equipment, or to close the windows.
Prior notification is the key to providing options.
Currently, homeowners' use of general use pesticides is not regulated in any way despite the fact that they use many of the same pesticides as commercial applicators. There is a need to educate consumers concerning the importance of following label directions, and the importance of informing neighbors of pesticide applications to enable their fellow citizens to take any avoidance measures they believe are appropriate. A growing body of scientific knowledge indicates that children may suffer disproportionately from environmental health risks because children's bodily systems are still developing, children eat more food, drink more fluids, and breath more air in proportion to their body weight than adults, and children's behavior patterns may make them more susceptible to certain exposures. Exposure to pesticides is one environmental health risk for which there are no clear parameters. Until further scientific study can provide more answers, prudent action should be taken to reduce exposure to pesticides, especially for children because of their disproportionate risk.