Vermont Bans Paraquat Over Parkinson’s Risk, First State Action in the U.S.

Vermont becomes the first U.S. state to ban the herbicide paraquat, citing NIH-linked research that exposure raises Parkinson’s disease risk; the law takes effect on November 1 but allows state regulators to issue special permits through December 31, 2030 for use on certain fruit crops. It requires annual reporting of paraquat use and funds a state study on alternatives. While some lawmakers worry about farmers’ competitiveness, supporters say the health risks justify action, and other states are weighing similar bans amid ongoing lawsuits against the chemical.