Prohibits the use of the chemical methoprene

Title of bill

An act to amend the environmental conservation law, in relation to prohibiting the use of Methoprene

Purpose or general idea of bill

This legislation would prohibit the use of Methoprene, a larvicide.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 33-1301 of the environmental conservation law is amended by adding a new subdivision 12 relating to make it unlawful for any person to use of any pesticide that contains the active ingredient isopropyl (2E, 4E)-11 Methoxy-3, 7, 11 Trimethyl-2, 4 Dodecadienoate (Methoprene) in any storm drain, conveyance for water or fish habitat in any municipality adjoining the Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, and their connecting water bodies, bays, harbors, shallows and marshes provided, however, an emergency application of such pesticide may be made as determined by the county health department in cases where there is a significant threat to public health.

Justification

Methoprene (trade name Altosid) is used as a larvicide to prevent the spread of the West Nile virus. Unfortunately, it has the unintended consequence of killing lobster larvae, as well as contributing to lobster shell disease.

In order for New York's lobster populations to grow to acceptable, sustainable levels, we must take steps to ensure that dangerous chemicals do not enter the ocean. Methoprene contains chemicals which are negatively affecting the lobster population, and should be banned in any storm drain, conveyance for water or fish habitat in any municipality adjoining the Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, and their connecting water bodies, bays, harbors, shallows and marshes provided, however, an emergency application of such pesticide may be made as determined by the county health department in cases where there is a significant threat to public health.

Prior legislative history

2013-14: A.8374-A 2011-12: A.7980 2009-10: A.3152 2007-08: A.11373

Fiscal implications

None

Effective date

January 1, 2017