The U.S. Senate added an amendment to the proposed Elementary and Secondary Education Act to require safer pest control in schools. The amendment is supported by several industry groups, including pesticide applicators, as well as leading environmental groups. IKE supports the legislation.

Congress formed a conference committee to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions, including the pesticide amendment. Senator Evan Bayh and Rep. Tim Roemer are on the conference committee. Contact them to let them know that you support the pesticide amendments and want to see them retained.

How does the federal version differ from Indiana’s approach? The federal law would require:

• Universal notification to all parents at the mid-point of the school year and the beginning of summer session, not just the beginning of the school year;
• 24-hour instead of 48-hour advance notice to parents and staff on a registry;
• Posted of signs; and
• Adoption by the state and each school district of a more comprehensive plan instead of a broad policy.