A new law will now require government entities to notify residents when spraying pesticides near their homes. This legislation aims to help families plan and take necessary precautions, such as keeping children indoors or covering outdoor items like plants and pools, when pesticides are applied in their vicinity.

Senate Bill 3342, sponsored by Senator Steve McClure, mandates that government applicators, or those contracted by the government, must provide public notice before applying pesticides on public rights-of-way within municipal borders. The notice will also include contact information for the applicators. The law specifically excludes farmers, private individuals spraying their own property (including businesses), and applicators working on private property from these requirements.

This law, designed to enhance government accountability and protect public health, was signed into law on August 9th.