Baltimore City bans toxic pesticides

A new law restricting the use of three toxic pesticides that can harm children and kill bees goes into effect Friday in Baltimore City. CB 20-0495 restricts the use of chlorpyrifos, neonicotinoids and glyphosate (the main ingredient in the popular weed killer RoundUp) on public and private property—including lawns, playing fields, playgrounds, and children’s facilities, with few exceptions. 

“Today is a good day for Baltimore’s parents, pet owners and beekeepers — who will all have one less health concern,” said Maryland PIRG Director Emily Scarr. “In the absence of consistently strong state and federal action, Baltimoreans should thank our city leaders for standing up to protect our health. I know I’ll feel better as I walk with my children and dog in our neighborhood.”

Read our full statement here.