Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. was joined by his Long Island Senate colleagues recently when he called for a new law that would require pesticide applicators to give neighbors 48 hours prior notification.

"Currently, general pesticides usage by homeowners is not regulated in any way," said Fuschillo who is a member of the Senate Health Committee. "There is a need to inform neighbors of pesticide applications to enable them to take any avoidance measures they feel will protect themselves and their families from any potential health hazards caused by pesticides."

According to Fuschillo, the legislation would require an applicator who is spraying any vegetation under five feet, to notify neighbors with an abutting property within 15 feet of the sprayed area. Applicators spraying any vegetation that is five feet or taller will be required to notify neighbors with abutting properties within a 150 feet perimeter.

"Spraying above five feet often means the applicator is spraying at a higher pressure with a greater likelihood of the pesticide mist drifting to neighboring properties," Fuschillo said.

The legislation further states that if a person violates these provisions they can be fined up to $250. In addition, criminal sanctions may be imposed for intentional violations of the law.

"With prior notification, neighbors will have the information they need to avoid unnecessary exposures." Fuschillo said. "Neighbors could choose to store their barbecue, cover a sandbox and other play equipment or close windows in order to protect themselves and their families."