Vermont Gov. Phil Scott has vetoed a proposal to restrict the use of toxic pesticides for agriculture, saying it would hurt the state’s farmers.

The proposal, approved by the Democratic-controlled state Legislature, called for banning neonic-treated seeds of corn, soybean, wheat and rice and outdoor uses on soybeans, cereal grains and ornamental plants.

Democrats who approved the measure argue that removing a pesticide that some studies have linked to a reduction in bees and other pollinators will improve public health and the environment.

But Scott said the ban is unnecessary, based on recent scientific studies, and would put Vermont farmers at a significant disadvantage as they struggle with the impact of higher taxes, energy prices, crop losses associated with last year’s spring frost, and summer and winter floods.

“Pollinators are essential to growing food and maintaining a healthy, thriving ecosystem,” the Republican said in his veto message. “The same is true of farmers, who are also critical contributors to our economy, but altogether, this legislation is more anti-farmer than it is pro-pollinator.”

Scott pointed out that the honeybee population has grown nationally, and even the use of neonics has persisted. He cited data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture showing that Vermont’s honeybee population has grown by about 30% from 2017 to 2022.

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