NPMA Legislative Day Highlights Farm Bill Momentum and Push for Pesticide Preemption

WASHINGTON – The National Pest Management Association’s Legislative Day, held Tuesday, in Washington, D.C., arrived a critical juncture as momentum is building for a 2026 Farm Bill.

More than 230 industry professionals descended on Capitol Hill, urging their lawmakers and staff to support inclusion of pesticide preemption language in the 2026 Farm Bill.

Just days earlier, the House Committee on Agriculture approved the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 by a 34–17 vote, with bipartisan support that included seven Democrats joining Republicans.

This version of the Farm Bill includes Section 10206, commonly referred to as state pesticide preemption, and it reaffirms the authority of states to regulate pesticide use.

“State pesticide preemption prevents a patchwork of local ordinances that could create inconsistency for both consumers and service providers,” said Megan Streigel, senior director of public policy, NPMA.

Shannon Sked, national technical director, Orkin, said the industry prides itself on its compliance.

“If we are operating in an environment where there are 15 different areas with 15 different regulations, that is 15 different ways we can slip up and not do the right thing,” he said. “I really worry about it causing confusion and actually tarnishing the reputation of this great industry that we have.”

Importantly, Section 10206 is distinct from other pesticide sections in the bill, particularly those related to labeling, which were the primary focus of opposition during committee debate. Legislative Day participants worked to ensure congressional offices clearly understood these distinctions.

Their message highlighted that state pesticide preemption does not alter labeling requirements or limit states’ ability to address risks. Instead, it reinforces existing regulatory frameworks already in place in 45 states, where statewide standards provide clarity while still allowing local governments to make decisions when it comes to pesticide use on public property.

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