Vermont becomes first US state to ban paraquat herbicide over Parkinson’s fears

The Guardian World Tuesday 26 May 2026, 20:46 UTC By Carey Gillam 1 min read

Key Points

Vermont has become the first US state to ban the herbicide paraquat, following concerns over studies linking the weedkiller to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. Governor Phil Scott signed the legislation, which takes effect on 1 November. The ban includes a provision allowing state regulators to issue special permits for its use on certain fruit crops until the end of 2030.

Lawmakers cite studies linking weedkiller to Parkinson’s as pressure mounts for a wider US ban

Vermont is the first US state to ban the weedkilling pesticide paraquat, backed by lawmakers who cited concerns about research showing the chemical substantially increases the risk of the incurable brain ailment known as Parkinson’s disease.

Phil Scott, the governor, signed the legislation on Tuesday. The new law takes effect 1 November, though it contains a provision allowing state regulators to issue special permits for paraquat use on fruit-producing tree orchards, berries and other “small fruit” crops up until 31 December 2030.

Originally published by The Guardian World Read original →

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Vermont becomes first US state to ban paraquat herbicide over Parkinson’s fears

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