Vermont has become the first US state to ban the pesticide paraquat, a chemical widely used on crops and linked to Parkinson's disease, organ damage, and certain cancers. Governor Phil Scott signed the bill into law on Tuesday, with the prohibition on the use and sale of paraquat taking effect statewide from November 1. Fruit farmers, including those tending orchards and berry crops, may apply for an exemption but must cease all use by the end of 2030.
Governor's Statement and Broader Implications
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Governor Scott said: 'Today, I signed H.739, which phases out the use of the harmful herbicide paraquat over the coming years. I hope this can serve as a model for other states to follow.' Paraquat is used extensively across the US to kill weeds and grasses on crops such as grapes, soybeans, peanuts, pistachios, potatoes, and fruits. Despite strict regulations due to its toxic health effects, concerns persist over long-term exposure among farmworkers and nearby residents, as well as potential trace residues on food.
Health Risks and Scientific Evidence
Numerous studies have linked paraquat to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative condition that gradually impairs movement and quality of life. The chemical has also been associated with organ failure and cancers, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma and childhood leukemia. Although banned in 70 countries and across Europe since 2007, paraquat remains one of the most widely used pesticides in the United States. Dan Feehan, chief policy expert for the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which advocated for the ban, stated: 'The evidence linking paraquat exposure to increased Parkinson's risk is strong and has been building for decades. Other states should follow Vermont's lead, and the federal government has an obligation to protect all Americans with a national ban.'
Exemptions and Reporting Requirements
Under the new law, farmers tending fruit-producing tree orchards, berries, and 'small fruit' crops can apply for an exemption valid until the end of 2030. To qualify, they must demonstrate that no alternative pesticide is effective against the weeds typically treated with paraquat and show measures to prevent pesticide drift from their property. The bill also mandates annual reporting of paraquat use in the state and a state-funded study to recommend safer alternatives for farmers.
Debate Over Competitiveness and Safety
Some lawmakers expressed concerns that the ban could harm the competitiveness of Vermont farmers. However, others argued that the scientific evidence linking paraquat to serious diseases outweighs any benefits. State Representative Michelle Bos-Lun remarked during a House committee hearing: 'There are so many factors pointing to the correlation between paraquat use and Parkinson's. We have to do something to phase this out. Our job is to support farmers and all Vermonters. My belief is that paraquat is causing harm to both. If there is a chance we could reduce harm by making this step, it feels like a responsible thing to do.'
Usage and Legal Challenges
Paraquat has been used in the US since 1964, with approximately 11 to 17 million pounds sprayed annually nationwide. Concerns over its health effects have mounted since the 1980s, when studies first raised red flags. According to the Michael J Fox Foundation, farm workers who apply paraquat are more than twice as likely to develop Parkinson's disease compared to those who do not. People living near treated farms also face elevated risks. A study published earlier this month warned that fruits, vegetables, and whole grains treated with toxic pesticides like paraquat may increase the risk of lung cancer. Experts explain that paraquat triggers brain inflammation and damages neurons, while also causing DNA damage that can lead to cancer.
Thousands of individuals have filed lawsuits against Syngenta, the manufacturer of Gramoxone (the brand name for paraquat), over alleged health risks. These cases are consolidated in multi-district litigation in the Southern District of Illinois. In March, Syngenta announced it would cease production of the pesticide by the end of June, though it maintained that paraquat is safe when used according to label instructions. In January, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a reassessment of paraquat's safety, requiring manufacturers to provide thorough evidence of its safety. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated: 'The Trump EPA has made the important, proactive decision to freshly reassess the safety of paraquat. When new science raises questions, the Trump EPA will not look the other way.'
Consumer Advice
Experts recommend washing fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly with water before consumption to reduce pesticide residues, including paraquat. They note that soaps or special rinses are not necessary, as water is effective in removing most residues, though it may not eliminate all traces.
