Hope Damon

Please support HB1086 to limit use of pesticides in the neonicotinoids. These are systemic pesticides that are effective against some pests but are extremely harmful to bees which are essential pollinators for our farms and orchards. Neonicotinoids have great persistence in the environment, impact nontarget organisms adversely, stay in soil for years and are carried in the watershed far and wide. We have seen 60% loss of bee hives in recent years after 40-50% declines over the past 2 decades. Much of this is attributed to the use of neonicotinoids - which aren't even considered necessary to protect crops. Research links neonic exposures in the womb to birth defects of the heart and brain, autism-like symptoms, and reduced cognitive abilities. Adult exposures are also associated with lower testosterone and sperm quality and count, altered insulin regulation, and changes to fat metabolism. It is urgent to limit the use of these pesticides. Thank you for your thoughtful, factual consideration. Respectfully, Rep Hope Damon