Bee deaths in the United States almost hit a new low in 2022 as the second highest death total ever was recorded according to a recent survey.
The devastating losses of bee colonies nationwide has led to scrutiny over neonics, bee-killing pesticides banned throughout Europe but still legal in the United States.
Stepping up to the plate twas Kathy Hochul, the governor of New York State, who passed what is being called the strongest legislation against the harmful effects of bee-killing pesticides in the country.
‘Nation-Leading Legislation’ Signed in NY
The news has been slow to make it to national media, and is still being disseminated since the legislation was quietly passed toward the very end of 2023, just before Christmas.
A December 22 press release shared the news, that Governor Hochul had enacted the ‘Birds and Bees Protection Act,’ aka Legislation S.1856-A/A.7640.
The law was described as a “proactive measure to protect pollinators by restricting the use of neonicotinoid pesticides on certain seeds, outdoor ornamental plants, and turf.”
Hochul called it an important stride for protecting those most harmed by the toxic seeds.
“By signing the Birds and Bees Protection Act, New York is taking a significant stride in protecting our kids, environment and essential pollinators,” Governor Hochul said.
The legislation targets neonic-treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds among others.
“This law underscores our commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem while we prioritize sustainable farming and agricultural practices,” the press release added.
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Species ‘Saved From Extinction’
New York State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said that the EPA recently found evidence that neonic pesticide-coated seeds are “the most ecologically destructive” since the infamous chemical pesticide DDT.
“The EPA recently found that neonicotinoid pesticides are driving more than 200 species towards extinction,” Hoylman-Sigal said.
“I’m also extremely thankful to the coalition of advocacy groups that helped get our bill across the finish line, including NRDC, the Sierra Club, NYLCV and environmental advocates, as well as my Senate colleagues, Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, and Pete Harckham, Chair of the Environmental Conservation Committee,” Hoylman-Sigal added.
New York State also released a ‘Pollinator Protection Plan’ in PDF form that can be viewed here.
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