News from VTC

Legislative Update

The 2024 General Assembly session was very important for our industry. We were particularly concerned about two bills: House Bill 320 allows non-licensed persons to apply pesticides on government property and House Bill 644 (same as Senate Bill 305) which allows localities to restrict gas-powered leaf blowers. The first one passed; the second was carried over to 2025.

House Bill 320 seeks to control invasive weeds – the goal is noble and one we totally support. We do not agree with the methods that piece of legislation uses to achieve that goal. Certified Pesticide Applicators are trained, pass a rigorous examination, attend regular recertification classes, and work for a licensed, insured company. Allowing volunteers to apply the same products in public areas creates a two-tiered system: One for industry persons who work diligently to obtain – and to maintain –their license and one for volunteers. Governor Youngkin is expected to sign the bill into law.