Pesticides: neonicotinoids: labeling.

Existing law generally regulates pesticide use by the Department of Pesticide Regulation, and requires the Director of Pesticide Regulation to endeavor to eliminate from use any pesticide that endangers the agricultural or nonagricultural environment. A violation of those provisions and regulations adopted pursuant to those provisions is generally a misdemeanor. Existing law requires the department, on or before July 1, 2018, to issue a determination with respect to its reevaluation of neonicotinoids, and to adopt control measures necessary to protect pollinator health within 2 years, as specified. This bill, on and after July 1, 2017, would require labeling, as specified, of commercially available seeds and plants sold at retail establishments, excluding noxious weed seeds and plants, that have been treated with a neonicotinoid pesticide. The bill, by January 1, 2018, would prohibit the noncommercial use of neonicotinoids, except as provided. The bill would specify that a violation of these requirements is not a crime but would constitute an unfair and unlawful business act or practice.