Protect Children from Toxic Lawn Pesticides at School
The Safe Playing Fields Act (S2610/A3782) is a piece of legislation that would protect New Jersey children from exposure to toxic lawn pesticides where they play at school and in parks. This bill is needed because many scientific studies show that children are more exposedand vulnerable to the hazards of pesticides than adults. Sustainable, non-toxic lawn/field care methods cost less over time, are effective, and are healthier for both the landscape and our children.
The legislation has passed out of several key committees already. It has strong support with 18 co-sponsors in the Senate and 21 in the Assembly. But time is running out. It needs to be signed into law by the end of this legislative session in early January and it needs to cover both playgrounds and playing fields where children play the most. As the Assembly Speaker, she is in a great position to ensure passage of the Safe Playing Fields Act.
Please take a few minutes right now to send this message to Assemblywoman and Speaker Oliver. She has to make 3 key decisions on this bill — one (Thurs. 12/15) and the other 2 in early January. Urge her to champion a strong Safe Playing Fields Act being signed into law by January 10th before its too late. Strong means that it covers both athletic fields at high schools and parks not just playgrounds. Chemical companies should not trump kids.
Email to: Aswoliver@njleg.org and/or call 973-395-1166.
We are protecting children’s health with this legislation and can’t afford to wait any longer. Please take a few minutes right now to take this important action.
Thanks
Kim Gaddy
Chair, Newark Environmental Commission and Environmental Justice
Organizer, NJEF Kim Gaddy
Recent Comments