Ohio Asks EPA to Allow Unregistered Pesticide Use for Bed Bugs

Take Action by letting the EPA know that this is a step backward

Ohio is petitioning the EPA to allow a Section 18 exemption for the use of Propoxur, a carbamate pesticide, to help them with their bed bug problem. SPCP along with Beyond Pesticides and PANNA have submitted comments that have been posted to the docket. Our letter explains why using this toxic pesticide is a bad idea. Let your voice be heard and submit your comments by linking here.

EPA Requests Public Comment on Inerts in Pesticides

Public disclosure is one way to discourage the use of hazardous ingredients in pesticide formulations. Go to www.regulations.gov to add your comments and read the full article in our News section.  Use docket number EPA-HQ-OPP-2009-0635.

Updated Law Signed By The Governor

Less Toxic Lawn Care Law for Schools and Childcares

Success!  SPCP is proud to announce our success in getting current law amended to better protect children from toxic lawn care chemicals. Governor Quinn signed the amendments into law on August 13, 2009.

In the spring of 2009 the Illinois legislature overwhelmingly approved new provisions to the current Lawn Care Products Application and Notice Act.  They include:

• adding day care facilities to the act
• extending the parent notification provision to at least four days before application of lawn care chemicals takes place
• requires the designation of a staff person to coordinate lawn applications at all schools and childcare facilities

In addition, language was added to the law that recommends the use of less toxic lawn care practices.  Unfortunately an amendment that would have required a waiting period before allowing children to play on treated lawns was rejected.  However, SPCP recommends a wait period of 12 to 24 hours before play is resumed on chemically treated lawns. We want to thank everyone for their support. Please write to your state representatives and thank them for taking action on this issue.

Safer Pest Control Project continues to advocate for the protection of people and the environment from the harmful affects of pesticides.  We are proud of our success in helping to pass this legislation which will help protect one of our most vulnerable populations - children - from exposure to these poisons.

Click here for a

 Summary of the New Lawn Care Act, 2009. 

Get your copy of the amended version of the law. Contact the Illinois Department of Agriculture for more information about enforcement of the law.

Wear Your Support

Purchase an SPCP Chico Bag today!

Your purchase of this re-usable bag displays your  commitment to the environment. Chico Bags are not only trendy, but they also include a built in carabiner hook and integrated pouch. Easily foldable, store them in your purse or pocket.

Please click on the Support SPCP icon (at bottom left) to complete your $10.00 Chico Bag purchase. For a wrinkle-free appearance, simply pop the Chico Bag in the dryer for a few minutes.

SPCP'S Childcare Program Wins National Award

Rachel Rosenberg, Executive Director, traveled to Atlanta on October 21 to accept an EPA Environmental Justice Award on behalf of SPCP.