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Schools Implement Pesticide 'Right to Know' Act

by Erika Schreder, WA Toxics Coalition

In a big win for anti-pesticide activists, schools this year began implementing the Children's Pesticide Right to Know Act that requires school districts to provide annual notices describing that schools pest-control policies and methods, post notices when pesticides are used and notify parents, guardians and staff before applications.

"This bill ensures that parents know when their children will be exposed to pesticides," said Sen.Tracey Eide, the bill's sponsor. "In the past, many parents simply didn't know when these chemicals, which can be very harmful to children, were being used. Now, parents will be fully notified in advance so they can make informed decisions."

Key elements of the law are as follows: Signs will be posted whenever pesticides are used at schools, indoors and outdoors. Signs will be posted 48 hours before pesticide use. School districts must notify the parents who request it 48 hours before pesticide use. School districts must keep records of all pesticide applications.

"This new law gives parents important tools for making sure their child's environment is healthy," said Lisa Bond, President of the Washington State PTA. "Once parents know what pesticides are used in schools, they can work for a switch to safer alternatives. We encourage all parents to request notice before pesticides are applied at their child's school." Some school districts already notify parents when pesticides are used. These include Vancouver, Oak Harbor, Sedro-Woolley, Mercer Island and Chewelah.

For more information call Washington Toxics Coalition, 206-632-1545 x19.