comscore New Hawaii law bans use of widely used pesticide | Honolulu Star-Advertiser
Top News

New Hawaii law bans use of widely used pesticide

Honolulu Star-Advertiser logo
Unlimited access to premium stories for as low as $12.95 /mo.
Get It Now
  • ASSOCIATED PRESS

    Hawaii Gov. David Ige, with state lawmakers standing behind him, signs legislation that bans a pesticide scientists have found could hinder the development of children’s brains.

The state of Hawaii is banning a pesticide scientists have found could hinder the development of children’s brains.

Gov. David Ige today signed legislation banning chlorpyrifos. Ige and state lawmakers say Hawaii is the first state to ban the substance.

Chlorpyrifos is among the world’s most widely used pesticides. It’s commonly sprayed on citrus fruits, apples and other crops.

The state may issue exemptions for three years to allow agriculture businesses time to adjust. The law takes effect in January.

EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt last year reversed an effort by President Barack Obama’s administration to bar its use on fruits and vegetables. The Obama administration acted after peer-reviewed academic studies found even tiny levels of exposure could hinder child brain development.

Comments (10)

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines.

Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.

Click here to see our full coverage of the coronavirus outbreak. Submit your coronavirus news tip.

Be the first to know
Get web push notifications from Star-Advertiser when the next breaking story happens — it's FREE! You just need a supported web browser.
Subscribe for this feature

Scroll Up