CT SB00231

Commissioner of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station and Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, shall develop best practices by January 1, 2017 for minimizing neonicotinoid insecticide dust from treated seeds, including methods for seed dispensing, vacuum system positioning, mowing schedules, weather conditions, and seed lubricants.

Prohibits application of neonicotinoid insecticides to linden or basswood trees and prohibits application to any flowering plants except those grown in pollinator-inaccessible greenhouses, effective from passage.

Requires all neonicotinoids labeled for treating plants to be classified as restricted use by January 1, 2018.

Establishes a Pollinator Advisory Committee within the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station with at least three experts in pollinator health to serve as an information resource for the General Assembly.

Requires Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station to compile a citizen's guide to model pollinator habitat by January 1, 2017 and directs Department of Transportation to identify opportunities to replace nonnative turf grasses along state highways with native pollinator habitat plants.