NEW SECTION. Sec. 1. "(1) The legislature finds that farmers, farmworkers, and the broader community share an interest in minimizing human exposure to pesticide.
(2) The legislature recognizes that huge gains in minimizing human exposure have been made by the agricultural industry through a combination of scientific advancements, ongoing education and training, usage of safety equipment, improved technologies, and proper monitoring and regulation. In 2014, the legislature created a temporary farm work group that included representatives of both growers and workers. The 2014 farm work group jointly identified administrative recommendations to minimize public health issues posed by pesticide drift. The 2014 farm work group recognized that following necessary operating procedures and best management practices, thorough operator training, and good communication prevents or greatly reduces pesticide drift exposure. Through such collaborative efforts, the state has had significant gains in decreasing pesticide exposure on farms.
(3) The legislature finds that collaboration between state agencies and the farming community can assist in further minimizing exposure of agricultural workers to pesticide drift."
On page 1, line 6, after "applications." insert "The work group shall:
(a) Review existing state and federal laws regulating pesticides and their application;
(b) Arrange for a presentation on new pesticide application technology; and
(c) Review the reports of the former pesticide incident reporting and tracking review panel created under RCW
70.104.080 (repealed)."
On page 1, line 2 of the title, after "and" strike the remainder of the title and insert "creating new sections."
EFFECT: Makes legislative findings. Requires the work group to review existing state and federal laws, arrange for a presentation on new pesticide application technology, and review the reports of the former pesticide incident reporting and tracking review panel.