HI HB253

Prohibits the use of pesticides containing the active ingredient chlorpyrifos in Hawaii by adding it as a prohibited act under Section 149A-31, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

Cites Environmental Protection Agency findings that chlorpyrifos can overstimulate the nervous system and cause nausea, dizziness, confusion, respiratory paralysis, and death.

Notes scientific evidence that exposure to chlorpyrifos in small amounts may cause developmental delays, reduced cognitive capacity, behavioral problems, and learning disabilities in children and pregnant women.

References documented incidents in Hawaii including ten farm workers hospitalized from chlorpyrifos exposure in West Kauai and chlorpyrifos detected in air at Waimea Canyon middle school and in water sources on Kauai and Hawaii County.

Effective date is July 31, 2150.