Environmental advocates say the new Farm Bill proposal going through Congress caters to major chemical companies while weakening protections in Tennessee and across the U.S.
The bill is an omnibus package that sets national policy for agriculture, nutrition and conservation every five years.
Brett Hartl, government affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity, warned the current version of the bill would ease oversight of harmful pesticides and reduce federal reviews of chemicals used in farming. His group, along with more than a hundred others, has signed a letter to lawmakers opposing multiple provisions in the bill.
"The Farm Bill actually basically seeks to immunize pesticide companies from that duty to warn," Hartl explained. "A lot of pesticides are dangerous. They can cause very serious harm, including potentially cancers."
Hartl noted the House Farm Bill will shield chemical companies from accountability, delay protections for endangered species, increase deforestation and result in the unchecked discharge of dangerous pesticides and chemicals into the environment. Supporters argued it provides essential certainty and modern tools for farmers facing high costs, low prices, and economic challenges.
Hartl pointed out a provision which would limit the ability of state and local governments to add warning labels or restrict pesticide use in places like schools and playgrounds. He believes the changes could make children more vulnerable to chemical exposure and weaken protections for pesticides sprayed directly into waterways.
"Some pesticides are used directly in water to control aquatic pests," Hartl underscored. "This would eliminate important Clean Water Act protections, sort of processes designed to make sure that again, we're using better choices, less dangerous chemicals, those will be thrown away."
He added the Farm Bill is not all bad, as it includes several programs farmers rely on, like conservation efforts through the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. He stressed the programs are worth preserving.
Source: Public News Service
