Protecting Connecticut’s Environment, Wildlife and Public Health

Widespread pesticide use is driving what scientists have dubbed an “insect apocalypse,” pushing vital pollinators like bees toward collapse. These tiny creatures are responsible for one in every three bites of food we eat, including many fruits, nuts, and vegetables. The same toxic chemicals harming pollinators are also linked to serious health risks in people, including developmental and reproductive harms, with infants in utero being the most vulnerable to exposure. 

Connecticut legislators have been national leaders in restricting these toxic pesticides. The state was one of the first to act on neonics — a highly toxic pesticide and a primary driver of pollinator loss — by passing initial restrictions in 2016. But the job wasn’t done. These chemicals remained widespread, continuing to threaten ecosystems and communities across the state. 

Friends of the Earth supporters helped push California to take steps to further restrict neonics. So, when Connecticut introduced an anti-neonic bill the following year, we knew victory was within reach.  

Friends of the Earth joined a broad coalition of local pollinator, wildlife, and pesticide advocates to push for passage of Senate Bill 9 — a landmark bill that would strengthen restrictions on bee-killing neonicotinoid pesticides across the state. Through this collaboration, and action from hundreds of Friends of the Earth members, the fight was won. On May 28, SB 9 was finally passed by the House and signed into law on June 3, marking a massive win for pollinators and public health. FOE’s close work with legislative champions enabled the negotiation of an effective bill to restrict neonic pesticides on more than half a million acres of lawn, turf, and grass. Even more, these restrictions were packaged in a bill championing climate justice, climate resilience, and limiting the use of rodenticides. Coming on the heels of a 2022 ban on chlorpyrifos use on golf courses, this bill highlights Connecticut’s continued leadership in restricting toxic pesticides.  

This victory was the culmination of three years of dedicated Friends of the Earth advocacy, which included commissioning critical water testing that revealed widespread neonic contamination in Connecticut’s rivers — putting numerous aquatic species at risk. FOE also brought together a wide variety of conservation, public health, school, and children’s organizations to testify in favor of restricting neonic use.  

Friends of the Earth is proud to have played a key role in this historic victory, working alongside dedicated advocates and community members to protect pollinators, ecosystems, and public health. But the fight isn’t over — we will continue to push for stronger pesticide regulations nationwide to ensure a safer, healthier future for both people and the planet.