John,

Bee populations are collapsing at an alarming rate, and it's getting worse. 

While climate change, pollution, disease and habitat loss are all major factors contributing to bee population decline, multiple studies have confirmed that toxic bee-killing neonicotinoid pesticides (neonics) – one of the most widely used pesticides in the world – play a significant role in the dramatic loss of bee populations.

Rep. Nicole Grohoski (Ellsworth) recently introduced LD 2083, a bill to restrict the use of certain neonics by homeowners and landscapers here in Maine. We need your help to build public support behind this important bill and urge our lawmakers to restrict neonics to protect bee populations.

Your legislators need to hear from you on this issue. Will you send a personal message urging your lawmakers to protect bees in Maine? Click here to send your letter.

These toxic pesticides increase pollinator susceptibility to parasitic mites, hinder bees' ability to forage, weaken colonies, and interrupt mating patterns. Neonic exposure also poses neurotoxic threats to human health, especially with newborn babies.

The European Union banned neonics permanently in 2018, and Canada has placed restrictions on its use. Some U.S. states have already banned or restricted neonic use, yet on the national level, the EPA, facing industry pressure, reversed course so that instead of banning neonics, they are set to reapprove their use.

Maine must do its part to protect pollinators and our bee populations. Our farmers, economy, environment and health depend on it.

Join us and urge your lawmakers to support LD 2083 today. Click here to send your message.

Thank you,