Vermont Becomes First State to Ban Pesticide Linked to Parkinson's Disease

Vermont became the first U.S. state to ban the weed-killing pesticide paraquat. Lawmakers cited research suggesting the chemical may contribute to Parkinson’s disease, an incurable brain ailment. Gov. Phil Scott signed the legislation on May 26, and it takes effect on Nov. 1. The law allows special permits for paraquat use on fruit-producing tree orchards, berries, and other crops until Dec. 31, 2030. Exemptions are limited and permitted only when no less harmful pesticide would be effective during an environmental or agricultural emergency. The law also requires annual data reporting on any paraquat use in the state. A neurologist described the move as progress toward preventing a largely man-made disease, while some lawmakers raised concerns about farmer competitiveness and the need for more research.

"Vermont on Tuesday became the first U.S. state to ban the weed-killing pesticide paraquat, backed by lawmakers who cited concerns about research showing the chemical may cause the incurable brain ailment known as Parkinson's disease. After considering the bill for several days, Gov. Phil Scott signed the legislation May 26. It takes effect Nov. 1, though the new law contains a provision allowing state regulators to issue special permits for paraquat use on fruit-producing tree orchards, berries and other crops up until Dec. 31, 2030."

"The bill authorizes only "limited exemptions" and "only when no other less harmful pesticide would be effective in addressing an environmental or agricultural emergency." The new law also calls for annual data reporting on any use of paraquat in the state."

"Ray Dorsey, a neurologist who directs research into environmental causes of brain diseases at Atria Health and Research Institute, said Vermont's action was "another step toward preventing this largely man-made disease." He noted that many countries have banned paraquat and said it "is long overdue for the U.S. to do the same.""

"Some lawmakers expressed concern that a ban will hurt the competitiveness of Vermont farmers if the chemical is still allowed for use in other states, and said more research is needed to fully prove a link between paraquat and Parkinson's. But others said the scientific research is well"

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