California Bill Targets PFAS in Agriculture

California lawmakers are advancing legislation that would phase out the use of per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, in agricultural pesticides and related products. Assembly Bill 1603, introduced by Assemblymember Nick Schultz and co-sponsored by the Environmental Working Group, would prohibit the California Department of Pesticide Regulation from registering new pesticide products containing PFAS beginning July 1, 2028.

The legislation would also prohibit the manufacture and sale of PFAS containing pesticides in California by January 2030, with a broader prohibition on all PFAS pesticide products taking effect in 2035. PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they resist degradation and can accumulate in soil, water, wildlife, and the human body over long periods of time.

California has simultaneously increased investment in sustainable pest management systems. In August, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation announced more than $3.6 million in funding for sustainable pest management projects focused on biological controls, soil health, and reduced chemical dependency. Researchers and policy advocates say California’s approach could become a model for other states considering PFAS restrictions in agricultural systems.

California has also continued its investments into systems that use integrated pest management. For instance, $3.6 million has been allotted by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation to research sustainable pest management for biological controls, soil health and reduced use of chemicals. California’s approach to this pesticide phase out is seen by researchers and policy advocates as a model for other states to emulate.

Sources: Food Safety Magazine, “California Bill Aims to Ban PFAS Pesticides,” 2025; KTVU Fox 2, “California Bill Seeks Ban on ‘Forever Chemicals’ From Pesticides Used on Food Crops,” 2025; California Department of Pesticide Regulation, “California Funds Over $3.6 Million in Sustainable Pest Management Projects,” August 19, 2025; University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, “Invasive Pests Report,” 2025.

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