Requires any person including certified and licensed responsible pesticide applicators and commercial pesticide applicators and operators operating in the state to contact the division of plant industry of the department of agriculture and markets by phone at least forty-eight hours in advance of extermination of honey bees to obtain assistance in trying to relocate nuisance honey bee colonies or hanging swarms of honey bees, in lieu of destroying such honey bees; makes related provisions.
Summary
Bill S00494 seeks to amend the agriculture and markets law in New York to establish procedures for the preservation of honey bee colonies. The bill mandates that any individual, including certified pesticide applicators, must contact the division of plant industry at least 48 hours prior to exterminating honey bees. The goal is to explore relocation options for nuisance honey bee colonies instead of resorting to destruction. In cases where the division cannot be reached, individuals must attempt to contact local beekeepers for assistance in relocation.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will create a new legal framework that requires individuals and pesticide applicators to prioritize the relocation of honey bee colonies over extermination. This could lead to an increase in the population of honey bees in New York, which are crucial for pollination and agriculture. The bill may also necessitate changes in how pest control companies operate, as they will need to comply with the new notification and relocation requirements.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S00494 appears to be largely positive, as discussions emphasize the importance of honey bees to the environment and agriculture. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step in protecting these vital pollinators, while there have been no recorded votes or significant opposition noted in the available committee discussions.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise around the practicality of the relocation process, especially in cases where beekeepers are not available or when swarms pose an imminent danger. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the feasibility of contacting multiple beekeepers or the potential delays in addressing aggressive or diseased swarms. However, no specific opposition has been documented in the current discussions.
Same As
Requires any person including certified and licensed responsible pesticide applicators and commercial pesticide applicators and operators operating in the state to contact the division of plant industry of the department of agriculture and markets by phone at least forty-eight hours in advance of extermination of honey bees to obtain assistance in trying to relocate nuisance honey bee colonies or hanging swarms of honey bees, in lieu of destroying such honey bees; makes related provisions.
Requires any person including certified and licensed responsible pesticide applicators and commercial pesticide applicators and operators operating in the state to contact the division of plant industry of the department of agriculture and markets by phone at least forty-eight hours in advance of extermination of honey bees to obtain assistance in trying to relocate nuisance honey bee colonies or hanging swarms of honey bees, in lieu of destroying such honey bees; makes related provisions.
Requires any person including certified and licensed responsible pesticide applicators and commercial pesticide applicators and operators operating in the state to contact the division of plant industry of the department of agriculture and markets by phone at least forty-eight hours in advance of extermination of honey bees to obtain assistance in trying to relocate nuisance honey bee colonies or hanging swarms of honey bees, in lieu of destroying such honey bees; makes related provisions.
Relating to clarifying the Right to Farm Act relating to residential agricultural operations and the protection of agriculture through Urban Beekeeping
Permitting beekeepers who meet certain requirements to sell packaged honey and honeycombs without holding a food establishment or food processing plant license under the Kansas food, drug and cosmetic act.