100% by July 1, 2002:  The Goal for Sound Pesticide Use Policies in Schools

More than 130 public school districts across Indiana have adopted or are in the process of adopting a policy regarding the use of pesticides in schools, according to testimony by Roger Thornton, Executive Director of the Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents. 130 districts represents one-third of Indiana school districts.

Most important, Mr. Thornton’s organization is committed to reaching 100% adoption by July 1, 2002.

On behalf of the non-public schools, Glenn Tebbe of the Indiana Non-Public Education Association committed to working for full adoption. However, Mr. Tebbe was new to the issue and not comfortable committing to a firm deadline.

These commitments were made at a hearing on HB-1250 by Rep. Avery of Evansville. Thanks to Rep. Porter of Indianapolis for giving the bill a hearing and to Rep. Avery for carrying the bill. And a special thanks to Sen. Gard for holding a hearing on SB-143, which set the stage and got the issues on the table.

Based on these commitments, the Senate and House committees decided not to pass the legislation. They preferred to give the voluntary adoption approach the opportunity to succeed.

IKE is impressed with the commitments made and pledges to work cooperatively with all stakeholders to achieve full adoption.