State of the States, Part II: Legislative Activity on Seed Policy

State legislatures continue to advance proposals spanning seeds, pesticides, technology, environmental reporting, and on-farm practices. As the regulatory conversation around systemic insecticides evolves, treated seed remains one of several key issues drawing sustained attention from lawmakers across the country.

ASTA’s state government affairs team is back with the second installment of our two-part series, keeping members informed on the latest developments from state capitals. This concluding post highlights activity in Illinois, Maryland, and Minnesota.

Illinois

SB3200: Pesticide – Neonicotinoids

SB3200 would limit the use of neonicotinoid pesticides on ornamental plants beginning in 2027, restricting applications to narrow, targeted methods and specific pest control scenarios. The bill prohibits broad or foliar applications, requires timing that avoids pollinator exposure, and grants rulemaking authority to state agencies. While it does not affect agricultural seed treatments, SB3200 reflects growing legislative interest in neonicotinoid oversight and could signal future attention to broader pesticide uses. Illinois legislative session adjourns May 31.

Maryland

HB91: Agriculture – Neonicotinoid Pesticides – Prohibitions

HB91 proposes one of the most sweeping state level restrictions on neonicotinoids introduced this session. The bill would prohibit the distribution, sale, or use of corn, soybean, and wheat seed treated with neonicotinoid pesticides, with only narrow exceptions tied to temporary suspensions issued by the Secretary of Agriculture. It also bans the use of neonicotinoids on outdoor ornamental plants and turf, except in limited circumstances such as certified applicator treatment of invasive species. The bill establishes a framework for temporary emergency exemptions but otherwise represents a significant shift toward eliminating neonicotinoid use across both agricultural and non-agricultural settings. The bill did not see movement after its hearing and failed to pass before the deadline. The Maryland legislature adjourned on April 13.

Minnesota

SF4052 : Comprehensive Treated‑Seed Oversight

SF4052 would restrict the sale and use of pesticide‑coated seeds unless a demonstrated need is established, incorporating:

• Pest risk assessments
• Applicator training requirements
• State level oversight and enforcement mechanisms

The legislation also addresses certain non-agricultural uses of neonicotinoids. SF4052 reflects heightened concern about cumulative environmental impacts, including pollinator decline and contamination of soil and water. By requiring justification for use, the bill moves Minnesota toward a more targeted, risk-based approach to systemic insecticides. The bill has not seen movement since its hearing. The Minnesota legislative session adjourned May 18.

ASTA hosts regularly scheduled, members-only updates on state legislative activity. To learn more about ASTA’s state advocacy efforts or to request details about the members-only update calls, please contact Jordan Gregory, Director, State Government Affairs.