The Board of Pesticides Control (BPC) wants you to be in the know. A number of pesticide bills heard during the last session of the Maine Legislature will soon become laws and may affect you. This is the first of two emails from the BPC. It provides details and links to additional information on bills that will become law on October 18, 2021. The second email will provide details about three resolves.   

The BPC will continue to provide you with updated legislation and rulemaking information through emails, direct mailings, and our website. Many of these topics will be discussed at upcoming public meetings. You are encouraged to follow and attend meetings of the board. The next board meeting is August 27, 2021 at 9:00 AM. Additional meeting details will soon be posted on the BPC website. If you need additional information, please contact the BPC Office at (207) 287-2731 and email at pesticides@maine.gov.  

 Regulatory Changes Effective Fall 2021 

The Future of Chlorpyrifos Insecticides in Maine  

LD 316: An Act To Prohibit the Use of Chlorpyrifos 

Beginning October 18, 2021, it will be unlawful to distribute insecticides containing chlorpyrifos in Maine (i.e. Dursban, Lorsban, Warhawk, etc). At its August 27, 2021 meeting, the board will be discussing possible rulemaking to prohibit the use of chlorpyrifos. The board will also discuss a possible temporary exemption to this prohibition involving the issuance of limited duration permits authorizing Maine licensed pesticide applicators to use insecticides containing chlorpyrifos where the applicator possessed the pesticide in the State before January 1, 2022.  

Future Herbicide Use on School Grounds and Nearby Areas  

LD 519: An Act To Protect Children from Exposure to Toxic Chemicals 

Beginning October 18, 2021, use of herbicides containing either glyphosate or dicamba will be prohibited on school grounds. Use of glyphosate or dicamba will also be prohibited on property within 75 feet of school grounds.  

Two types of property are exempt from these prohibitions—farms and private residential property.  

 Future Board of Pesticides Control Membership Requirements 

LD 1159: An Act To Amend Membership Requirements of the Board of Pesticides Control 

Beginning October 18th, 2021, the two public members of the board must now have a demonstrated interest in environmental protection, may not have a financial interest in the activities of the board, and may not have been certified or licensed as a pesticide applicator and/or dealer in Maine or any other state. Formerly, one of the board's public members was required to have practical experience or knowledge of sustainable management of pests.  

If you need additional information, please contact the BPC at (207) 287-2731. 

Thanks, and stay safe, 

Board of Pesticides Control