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Connecticut hearing spotlights harms from neonicotinoids; bill would restrict non‑agricultural uses
Summary
Lawmakers heard hours of testimony calling for limits on neonicotinoid insecticides (HB 6916). Supporters cited water and insect monitoring showing toxic levels and declines in aquatic insects and birds; opponents said seed‑treatment bans risk shifting to other pest controls and urged agency‑level regulation.
Lawmakers at a lengthy Environment Committee hearing heard competing evidence on HB 6916, a proposal to restrict non‑agricultural uses of neonicotinoid insecticides and to limit seed treatments for corn, soy and related crops.
Supporters said the chemicals are now routinely detected in Connecticut rivers and groundwater at levels that harm aquatic insects and pollinators, and that limiting routine applications — lawns, ornamentals and prophylactic seed coatings — would reduce ecological harm without depriving farmers of emergency tools.
The committee heard multiple technical reports and academic summaries described as showing chronic concentrations of neonicotinoids in waterways and sharp declines in aquatic…
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