Concerning designating second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides as restricted-use pesticides for the purpose of retail sales in the state.
Summary
SB26-062 would classify second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) as restricted-use pesticides in Colorado beginning July 1, 2027. The bill defines SGARs to include brodifacoum, bromadiolone, difenacoum, and difethialone, and directs the commissioner of agriculture to restrict their distribution and use under existing pesticide-control authority. It also adds a prohibited act for distributing or using SGARs in violation of the new restriction.
The bill’s stated purpose is to reduce human, pet, and wildlife exposure to highly toxic rodenticides by limiting access to licensed or otherwise authorized users and encouraging integrated pest management. Its legislative declaration emphasizes that SGARs should be used only as a last resort, in documented and persistent infestations, and that nonchemical methods such as exclusion, sanitation, and targeted removal should be prioritized. The bill also references the department of agriculture’s rulemaking authority to adopt additional risk-reduction measures consistent with state and federal law.
Impact
If enacted, the bill would amend Colorado’s pesticide law to create a new restricted-use category for SGARs and expand enforcement authority by making unauthorized distribution or use a statutory violation. It would affect retailers, pest-control professionals, applicators, and consumers by limiting general retail availability and requiring compliance with state restrictions and any implementing rules. The bill also signals a shift toward integrated pest management as the preferred approach for rodent control in the state.
Sentiment
The bill’s framing is strongly protective and precautionary, with the legislature finding that SGARs pose risks to children, pets, wildlife, and the environment. The discussion reflected in the bill text is generally supportive of tighter controls and emphasizes humane, science-based pest management. However, the bill’s final status shows it was postponed indefinitely in the House committee, indicating that despite policy support in principle, it did not advance through that committee stage.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the balance between public-health and environmental protections on one hand, and access to effective rodent-control products on the other. Supporters appear to favor restricting SGARs to licensed or limited circumstances and requiring integrated pest management, while opponents or skeptics may have concerns about burdens on retailers, pest-control operators, property owners, and the practical effectiveness of alternative methods. The committee outcome suggests there was not sufficient agreement to move the bill forward.