MACo Policy Associate Alex Butler yesterday testified before the House Environment and Transportation Committee in opposition of HB 472 Agriculture – Use of Glyphosate – Prohibition. This bill would place a ban on the use of the herbicide glyphosate, commonly used to control noxious weeds and invasive species by state and local government.

From the MACo Testimony:

HB 472, as written, would prohibit the use of glyphosate in the state on or after October 1, 2022. MACo understands that the bill will be amended to only prohibit the use by state or local government agencies. Counties remain concerned that an outright ban on government property may deny some current reasonable practices, dictated by project or geography.

Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide in the country. It remains one of the most effective tools to combat invasive species, making it an essential measure for local governments who maintain forests, parks, transportation infrastructure, and other outdoor areas. Counties already use glyphosate and other weed management tools sparingly, taking into account the needs of their communities when developing policies. This can be combined with limitations on use in high pedestrian traffic areas, and public notice procedures.

Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2021 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database.