On May 28, the Connecticut General Assembly passed Senate Bill 9 (SB9), marking a significant victory in the fight to restrict neonicotinoid pesticides—commonly known as neonics. These highly toxic chemicals have long threatened pollinators, birds, and aquatic ecosystems across the state, including our treasured Farmington River.
SB9 phases out the use of neonics on over 500,000 acres of turfgrass in Connecticut, a meaningful first step toward reducing contamination in our waterways and supporting pollinator health. As anglers and conservationists, we know that clean water is essential for healthy fish populations and robust aquatic ecosystems.
However, SB9 is only the beginning. Key compromises were made to ensure the bill’s passage—including the removal of all agricultural uses from the original version of the bill (HB6916). While this helped build momentum, it also means that harmful neonic-coated seeds and nursery applications are still allowed.
We must remain vigilant. Industry lobbyists are now working to weaken the bill further by removing protections for ornamental landscapes and rolling back Connecticut’s strong ban on pesticide use on K–8 school grounds. These changes would erode critical safeguards for pollinators, birds, children, and water quality.
FVTU stands with the broader conservation and public health community in urging lawmakers to protect the integrity of SB9 and oppose any further carve-outs. We also support future legislation to close remaining loopholes—especially those involving coated seeds, which continue to leach neonics into soil and water unchecked.
Why This Matters for the Farmington River
Neonics are widely detected in Connecticut’s rivers and streams, including in more than 50% of Norwalk River samples.
Aquatic life is at risk—neonics harm insects that form the base of the food chain, including the ones our trout depend on.
The EPA has acknowledged neonics threaten over 1,000 species, and yet progress at the federal level is slow and incomplete.
Protecting water quality from persistent pesticides like neonics aligns with FVTU’s mission to preserve and restore coldwater fisheries.
This legislative victory is a result of persistent grassroots advocacy and growing awareness. Let’s keep the momentum going.
To learn more and get involved, visit www.ctpesticidereform.org