(JUNEAU) - Yesterday, the Alaska State Senate passed House Bill 19, legislation that shifts the burden of funding the state's existing pesticide program with general funds to fees paid by chemical companies. HB 19, sponsored by Representative Kevin Meyer (R-Anchorage) passed by a vote of 17 to 2.

HB 19 also requires that reasonable public notice be given when pesticides are applied in parks, public sports fields, government buildings, or common areas of apartment buildings.

Over 5000 chemicals are registered with the Department of Environmental Conservation for sale or use in the state of Alaska. The department registers chemicals for sale and inspects places where chemicals are sold or applied to ensure that the federal Environmental Protection Agency regulations are followed. Every state charges a fee for the registration of chemicals, except for Alaska. The passage of HB 19 will bring Alaska up to the national standard of registration of chemicals and certification of applicators.

"Protecting the public health of Alaskans costs money. Asking the chemical companies that profit from the sale of their product to pay for the cost the state incurs is reasonable," said Meyer. "In addition, Alaskans have a right to know if they are exposing themselves, their children, or their pets to a chemical that could spawn an asthma attack or allergic reaction."

HB 19 now moves to the Governor for his signature.

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